How to Dress for an Interview

Know how to dress for a job interview. You never get a second chance to make your first impression. Research has shown that the first 100 seconds are crucial in determining the interviewer's perception of the candidate's suitability for the position.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Dress a level above the position. What you wear to the interview should be one step above the normal clothing for that position. This shows respect for the interview process and indicates that you are making an extra effort.

2. Dress on the conservative side. Conservative is the safe option. Most employers approve of suits. An interviewer is more likely to accept that you can dress down if the environment is more casual than that you will dress more conservatively once you are employed. Go for the understated look. Avoid overdoing anything including jewelry, make-up, shoes. Avoid flashy handbags and leave the cartoon tie at home.

3. 
    
   Good grooming

   Make sure your grooming is good. You can wear the smartest suit but if your hair is messy and unwashed it loses all impact. Make sure your hair is clean and neatly styled. You don't want to spend the interview pushing hair off your face. This is distracting and irritating for the interviewer! Clean, neatly manicured nails are also important. Your hands are clearly on view, make sure they send the right message about you.

4. Put your best foot forward. Closed-toed shoes for women are recommended. Backless shoes and open-toed shoes can look too casual. All shoes should be clean and polished. Run-down shoes ruin an outfit and give the impression that the candidate is careless and does not pay attention to detail. Tottering in on very high heels looks unprofessional, make sure you can walk comfortably and confidently in your shoes, especially if you are going on a workplace tour.

5. 
    
   Interview Suit

   Lighten up the black suit. Black suits can look intimidating and too serious. If you prefer to wear a black suit then relieve it with a light colored shirt. A lighter color next to your face softens the look. Stay away from leather, denim and shiny fabrics. Leather or denim is not considered professional and can carry negative perceptions. Avoid wearing leather jackets or skirts. Never wear jeans or denim jackets. Shiny, satin-like fabrics are generally inappropriate for smart business wear.

6. Select and try out your interview clothes a couple of days before the interview. Make sure your outfit is clean, well pressed and not in any need of repair. Try it on to see if you feel comfortable in it. You don't want to spend the interview tugging down a too tight or too short skirt! Keep in mind your commute to the interview, avoid wearing clothes that wrinkle easily if you have some distance to travel.

Tips & Warnings

• no piercings
• no chewing gum or candy
• cover up any tattoos as much as possible
• baggy clothes look messy and tight clothes look as though you are drawing attention to your looks rather than your skills!
• jewelry like ankle chains or toe rings looks unprofessional and should be taken off for the interview
• keep it simple and smart.

Resources

• A free and complete guide on how to dress for a job interview.
• More excellent interview tips and strategies.