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Step 1
First, you’ve already got the interview scheduled and should know what company it is for. You first must determine that company’s corporate culture. A good place to start is the company’s website. Look at pictures of any real employees the website may offer, a newsletter might be a good place to look. Are the people wearing business suits? Or jeans?
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Step 2
Next, even if it appears the culture is very relaxed, make sure you are dressing for the job you want to get up to, not the job you’re interviewing for. If you are interviewing for a receptionist position but eventually want to be a manager, dress as if you’re interviewing to be manager. Jeans are ALWAYS a no.
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Step 3
Next, women should wear a black or grey matching suit with a button down shirt under. If wearing pants, make sure they aren’t too tight. If wearing a skirt suit, the skirt should be below your knees and stockings are a MUST, either translucent black or nude are fine. See through black stockings are generally considered more conservative while nude is considered a little less conservative, choose appropriately. Shoes should be conservative and close toed, no sandals or peep toes. Your button down shirt should be a neutral color for a conservative job environment, for women white or light blue are great options. If the job is more creative, you can consider a brighter color, but stay away from any neons or crazy prints.
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Step 4
Next, women’s nails should be short and clean with neutral nail polish. A clear coat of polish never goes wrong.
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Step 5
Next, jewelry should be minimal. A light pearl necklace always looks classy. Women may want to consider taking off any engagement rings during the initial interview. Although employers are forbidden from discriminating against women for it, some will take you less seriously if you have an engagement ring on your finger and think you might just plan your wedding instead of work during working hours. They may also think you will leave quickly once you are married. While this is sad, it is a fact and a hole you do not want to fall into on the first interview round.
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Step 6
Next, hair should be neat and well groomed. Massive curls are not necessary. A low ponytail is a good option, it keeps the hair off your face during your interview and makes the focus on your skills, not your hairstyle.
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Step 7
Now, make up should also be neutral and natural. Stay away from colored eyeshadows and bright lips. Eyes should stick with light pinks, peaches, golds or silvers. No blue, green, red or purple eyeshadow. Lips should be neutral rose colors or pinks depending on your skin hue, bright red is not a good option. Remember you will likely be interviewing under fluorescent lighting which will be harsh on any make up you have on, don’t cake black eyeliner around your eyes, under those lighting conditions, you might look like the crypt keeper!
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Step 8
Finally, perfume should be minimal if at all. Remember, you don’t want to give your interviewer any reason not to like you, especially for something as silly as hating the perfume you put on this morning!
See my other articles for more job and interviewing tips, good luck!
