How to Dress for Success

When you're applying for a job you are selling yourself to a prospective employer. Although in most aspects of life you shouldn't be judged by how you dress, in the career field that's the first impression you make. Follow these steps to learn how to dress for success.

Instructions

1. Call the Human Resources office of your potential employer and ask what their dress code is. If you go into the office to pick up an employment application then observe what the employees are wearing. The goal is to dress as if you already fit in with the current personnel.

2. Wear solid-colored, conservative suits. Women should wear a coordinating blouse while men should wear a white, long-sleeve shirt and conservative tie.

3. Polish your dress shoes. If you wear shoes that are dirty, cracked or dull then you're sending the message that you do not pay attention to detail.

4. Make sure you are well groomed. Your hair should be combed and in place, your teeth brushed and you should be free of body odor.

5. Keep the jewelry to a minimum. There shouldn't be any visible body piercings other than conservative earrings for women.

6. Apply sparse makeup if you wear any at all. Too much makeup will make you appear flashy.

Tips & Warnings

• It's better to be overdressed than underdressed.

• Avoid perfumes and colognes. Some people are sensitive to strong smells and if the interviewer doesn't like the scent of your cologne, you'll leave a negative, lingering impression about yourself.

• Avoid wearing revealing clothing. It is unprofessional and distracts from the work environment.