The big day is coming. Your mind was racing while applying for the job. Mostly, you just hoped they’d give you the call.
The hiring manager scanned hundreds of résumé and noticed yours. And s/he wants to meet you in person! You must be proud of yourself for having been chosen…
But of course, there’s still one more step. Your final exam: the interview. Everything is set, you’ve been waiting for the day. Practicing your speech at night, answering
most common interview questions and answers in an interview while showering… Then, a question pops out of your mind: “What should I wear?”
This is a big dilemma that could even decide the outcome of the interview! The way you dress is the first impression you’ll give. We all know people judge books by their covers, and this time you’re the book! Yes, that’s not fair, hiring managers must evaluate you based on your accomplishments, but don’t forget, first impressions matter.
What you should wear to your job interview really depends on the job you’re applying for. Your dark-colored suit may be perfect for some occasions but business casual is the new trend! Times have changed with the increase in the number of tech companies. Nowadays, people tend to leave the ultra-conservative outfits behind and go more casual. The suit isn’t necessarily the interview uniform anymore… But it still depends on the company’s sector. And all that said, when in doubt about what to wear, go conservative.
Be careful wearing casual outfits for interviews. Casual clothes might say you’re relaxed and informal but could also mean a lack of respect to authority. Your outfit should show that you respect them, that you want to make a good impression and that you take them into account.
If you decide to go with a suit:
Ladies, you need to be chic, elegant yet simple. Your clothes must scream “Success!” A dark-colored suit with a knee-high skirt is the best option. Combine it with a conservative shirt. Don’t forget, a short skirt or too much cleavage is a big mistake. Wear a fit jacket, but it shouldn’t be tight! Leave your fancy accessories at home. I know, your task is harder than it is for men, but try to find the balance.
Gentlemen, this one’s for you. Don’t forget to dress up to the nines! A dark-colored suit goes well with light-colored shirt. The color of your tie gives a clue about your personality, and I recommend you wear blue. It means trust, confidence and stability. Exactly what you need to establish in an interview! Wear a pair of polished shoes that match with your belt. The color of your socks should be same as your pants.
What if you’ll go casual for a job interview:
Ladies, put on your Sunday best. You need to look like you’re saying: “I can easily adapt to the company culture” but also: “I am here to work.” Just stay away from shiny dresses. Nice-looking dress pants, casual dresses and skirts below the knee are acceptable. An interview is not the place to wear your printed t-shirt and jeans even if the company’s culture is like that. Make-up, perfume and accessories are ok provided you don’t exaggerate.
Guys, wear your slacks, khakis or dress pants. Wearing a belt is in your favor. You can easily combine your belt with your dress shoes or, depending on the job, you can wear your dark colored sneakers. Loafers and boots are also ok. I would recommend you wear a shirt or go with sweater/shirt combination. Combine your outfit with a blazer. But depending on the job, you could also make a combo with shirt and t-shirt.
Just 50 years ago, everyone on the street was wearing suits and nice dresses. Choosing your interview clothes must have been easier than today, wouldn’t you say?!
Long story short, the best way to dress for a job interview is to dress professionally. Even if you
apply for a job in the most casual of business environments, you have to establish a professional demeanor in your interview.
Source:
How to Dress for an Interview
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