Jason Chapman

IT professionals often dress casually on the job, but those looking for work may want to step up their style, a new survey suggests. More than four out of ten (43 per cent) chief information officers (CIOs) polled said tailored separates are the most appropriate interview attire. Another 29 per cent cited a formal business suit as proper apparel, followed by khakis and a collared shirt, with 22 per cent of the response.<br />
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The survey was developed by Robert Half Technology, a leading provider of information technology professionals on a project and full-time basis, and conducted by an independent research firm. It was based on telephone interviews with more than 270 CIOs from companies across Canada. CIOs were asked, "What is the most appropriate interview attire for someone interviewing for an IT job with your company?" Their responses:<br />
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Tailored separates (e.g., skirt and blouse, jacket and dress pants) .......................... 43%<br />
Formal business suit ........................................................................................................... 29%<br />
Khakis and a collared shirt ................................................................................................. 22%<br />
Jeans and a polo shirt ........................................................................................................... 3%<br />
Don't know/no answer ........................................................................................................... 3%<br />
                                                                                                                                                        100%<br />
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"Job seekers who choose proper interview attire not only project professionalism, but also demonstrate to prospective employers that they fit with the company's corporate culture," said Sandra Lavoy, regional vice president of Robert Half Technology. "Finding a job is challenging in today's economy, but IT job seekers who wear the right interview attire can gain a competitive edge over candidates with similar skills."<br />
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Lavoy added that, when in doubt, candidates should consult an insider who works at the company to get advice on the employer's work style and preferred interview attire. "If you're working with a recruiter or an HR representative, ask about the dress code and what would be appropriate." Robert Half Technology offers additional tips for selecting proper interview attire:<br />
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- Choose something comfortable. You want to look as relaxed as possible, so avoid uncomfortable clothing. If you buy something new, wear it a few times before your meeting to make sure it fits well and you feel confident in it.<br />
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- Pay attention to details. Don't overlook the less visible - but no less important - aspects of your appearance, like your shoes, socks and accessories. Make sure your outfit is free of wrinkles and stains, your hair and nails are well-groomed, and your shoes are polished.<br />
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- Don't overdo it. Ultimately, you want your experience and skills to be the focus of the interview - not your outfit. Avoid any distracting clothing, big jewelry, or excessive perfume, cologne or makeup. Also, remember to turn off any electronic "accessories," such as a cell phone or BlackBerry, before the meeting.<br />
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About the Survey<br />
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The national survey was developed by Robert Half Technology, a leading provider of information technology professionals on a project and full-time basis, and conducted by an independent research firm. The survey is based on more than 270 telephone interviews with CIOs from a random sample of Canadian companies.<br />
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About Robert Half Technology<br />
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With more than 100 locations worldwide, Robert Half Technology is a leading provider of information technology professionals for initiatives ranging from web development and multiplatform systems integration to network security and technical support. Robert Half Technology offers online job search services at www.rht.com.</span><br />
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