SAttavarPicA first impression is the last impression. It is instant and takes a few seconds for a complete stranger to formulate a positive or negative opinion of you based solely on your appearance. People don’t necessarily notice when you’re well put together, but they definitely notice when you’re not.

If you’re a movie buff like I am, and you’ve seen The Devil Wears Prada, then I’m sure you’ll remember the scene of Andy’s interview for the post of junior personal assistant to the editor in chief of a leading fashion magazine. She was dressed very plainly, perhaps not up to the standards of the fashion world’s liking. People looked down on her because she didn’t “fit” into their work space or environment. She still landed the job, though. You might not be as lucky as she was. It is important to dress to impress during an interview. Appearance may not be everything, but it is the first thing that people notice about you. So, it is necessary to get it on point. The most important thing you bring to an interview is your confidence. What you wear and how you wear it just helps convey that confidence.

Il mondo del lavoro 002Job-Specific Attire

Dress according to the job that you’re applying for. For example, tech companies or start-up companies have embraced a more casual, laid back approach for what is appropriate at the office. So, you can dress semi-formal or a little dressy casual. If it is for a more business or corporate world setting, it’s better to be suited up in formals. It’s always expected to be slightly overdressed for an interview rather than underdressed. Typically, you will want to dress one level higher than the everyday dress at the place of work. Here are a few tips to help you dress for an interview:

For Women:

  • You have the choice of skirt or trousers. The rule with a skirt is that the hemline should be no shorter than one biro length above the knee. There are some exceptions, depending on the company. When in doubt, you could ask the recruiter or Career Service Counselor at your university. Black, brown, navy, grey, or in the summer, lighter plain colors, are optional.

  • A white, ivory, or pastel colored tailored shirt is a safe option. Avoid patterns, but you could add a dash of color with a scarf or accessories. Avoid noisy, flashy jewellery. If you wear earrings, small studs are a safe bet. You could wear a single necklace and watch along with a ring or two.

  • Have your nails manicured and avoid bright colored nail polish. You don’t want them looking at your hands when you’re talking.

  • If you have long hair, make sure it is neatly tied away from the face to avoid distractions. Wet hair is a big no-no.

  • Keep your makeup at a minimal, as it will indicate that you value your professional image. Cover any visible tattoos or piercings. Avoid strong perfumes or other scented products.

  • Carry either a briefcase or a purse, not both.

  • Make sure any tech devices are hidden away, i.e. mobile phones or tablets should be switched off and out of sight.

  • Shoes should be dark colored, polished and not too high heeled. Try not to wear a new pair of shoes since walking might be uncomfortable at first. You could break in a new pair of shoes at home before the interview. Avoid sandals and flip flops.

For Men:

  • When in doubt, a suit is the best option. And no, not the ill-fitting one you got when you were graduating high school. It doesn’t have to be a very expensive suit that makes you shell out all your savings. Of course, paying those extra bucks for an expensive one gives you better quality and might last you another couple of years and job interviews; it’s an investment. But in any other case, you can always go for an affordable one. The key to looking good is always the fit. If your sleeve cuffs are a bit exposed, the shoulders lie flat, or the hem of your trousers graze your shoes, it doesn’t fit you right. Go with navy, gray, or black colored suits. Avoid bright colored shirts and go for something more toned down.

  • Your belt should match your shoes. Period.

  • A solid silk tie is the best option. Just make sure your tie does not clash with the rest of the outfit. The tie chosen for the interview should be more conservative to not scare off the interviewer (save The Simpsons or skull print tie for another time).

  • Your trousers can’t be too loose or tight, as they will look sloppy and uncomfortable. Again, fit is the key here.

  • Avoid cufflinks unless, you’re applying for an executive post in the company.

  • Wear dark colored socks that go along with your pants. White socks are a big no. Shoes for an interview should be dark in color and well-polished. Casual sneakers and no ties are a big no too.

  • Keep yourself well-groomed. No funky hairstyles. Shave prior to the interview and avoid any strong perfumes and aftershaves.

  • For shoes, opt for half brogues or cap tops and avoid squared tip shoes and suede material. Keep it dark like black or brown.

  • Don’t carry your documents in a folder. Rather use a briefcase or a portfolio holder.

Have these little things in mind before dressing for an interview and it’s already half the battle won!

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