Some interviewers like to start the conversation with a general conversation in order to break the ice and relax the candidate. But first impressions are very important in an interview. An attire can sometimes make or break a first impression. That is why dressing properly for an interview is not only essential, but it can also be a huge advantage during an interview as well. In this post I will provide you with some pointers and things to wear so that your appearance could impress a manager, who is interviewing you for a job opening, which could then lead you to receive a call from the potential employer after your interview.
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The best way to avoid wardrobe mishaps is to consider your own style and the type of job you are applying for. If you’re interviewing for a job as a professional in an office, then it’s best to dress in business casual attire. This may mean a suit jacket with dress pants and a button-down shirt or blouse. If the position is more relaxed, then consider wearing khakis or even jeans. Jeans are acceptable for men and women alike. However, don’t wear jeans if you know that the company has a formal dress code policy that requires interviewees to dress up.
How to Dress for an Interview
Your appearance can be just as important as your resume when it comes to getting hired. The first thing an employer notices about you is how you look. This means that it is essential that you dress professionally during your interview. Your clothes should be clean, pressed, and well-fitting so that they do not distract from what you have to say during your meeting with the hiring manager and other members of the staff who will be present at your interview.
What Not to Wear to an Interview
The first step in preparing for a job interview is figuring out what not to wear. Here are some tips for dressing for success:
• Do not wear anything too flashy or revealing. It might be tempting to show off your best assets, but it’s best to play it safe.
• Don’t wear any logos or trademarks of companies that you don’t work for. This includes clothing that has the name of a competitor on it (even if they aren’t one).
• Dress in business attire appropriate for the industry and company culture. If you’re not sure what this means, ask someone who works there what employees typically wear on a daily basis.
• Keep your hair neat and styled professionally — don’t go overboard with styling products or leave-in conditioner! This can make you look unapproachable and unprofessional.
A wardrobe malfunction can be disastrous. The following are some things you should never wear to an interview:
Jeans or other casual pants. Even if the company culture is relaxed, you don’t want to risk coming across as sloppy or unprofessional. If you’re unsure about what to wear, ask about a dress code before your interview and come prepared with appropriate attire.
A t-shirt with a slogan or picture on it. You want to look professional, and that means dressing up for the occasion — not down.
Clothes that are too revealing or too tight-fitting. While you don’t want to overdo it, there’s a balance between being too conservative and showing off your figure in a way that distracts from the conversation at hand. If in doubt, err on the side of caution by wearing something more conservative than what most people would consider appropriate for an interview setting.
Uncomfortable shoes that pinch or rub when you walk (and don’t forget to wear socks!). It may seem trivial, but if your feet hurt during an interview, chances are good that they’ll show on your face as well — not exactly the impression you want to make!
Women:
If you’re not sure what to wear, the safest bet is to dress one step up from your usual office attire. So if you wear jeans and a t-shirt at work, opt for a cotton button down shirt and khakis. The point is to look professional without being too dressy.
Men:
For men, the general rule of thumb is that you should always be dressed more formally than your interviewer. A suit and tie will always make a great impression on an interviewer. If you don’t own one, try renting a suit or buy one used at a thrift store (just make sure it fits).
1. Don’t wear too much jewelry
2. Don’t wear anything too revealing, even if you think it’s okay
3. Don’t wear too much makeup
4. Don’t wear flip flops or sandals (unless you’re in a beach town)
5. Don’t wear sneakers or tennis shoes unless they are athletic-ish (Nike Frees count!)
6. Don’t be the only person in jeans and a t-shirt at an interview for a professional job
7. Don’t wear sweatpants, even if they’re super cute and look like joggers
8. Don’t wear yoga pants to an interview unless you’re applying for a job at Lululemon
What not to wear to an interview
You know that the first impression is important, but it’s not always easy to know what you should wear for an interview. Here’s a list of some things that you probably shouldn’t wear to an interview:
Jeans or denim pants. Although it may seem like an obvious no-no, it’s worth repeating: Jeans and denim pants are not appropriate interview attire. They’re casual and informal. The same goes for sweatshirts, shorts and flip-flops — even if they’re the “dressy” kind!
Shirts with words or slogans across the front. This includes those cute T-shirts with phrases such as “Coolest Mom Ever” or “Future CEO.” You might love your kids or your dog (or both!), but your interviewer doesn’t need to see them on your shirt every time he looks at you during the meeting.
Low necklines and tank tops. While sleeveless tops can be fine in some situations (depending on how conservative your workplace is), revealing necklines are never appropriate in professional settings — even if you are interviewing for a sales position! It doesn’t matter how much cleavage you have; don’t expose it in the office!
