WHAT TO WEAR FOR A JOB INTERVIEW
As the old adage goes: ‘You never get a second chance to make a first impression,’ and this is never more so than in a job interview.
Knowing what to wear is extremely important – get it wrong and you could be on the reject pile before you even sit down.
Whatever job you’re applying for, your attire should be smart and professional, but make sure it’s comfortable so you’re not fidgeting throughout the process.
To help, here are some general guidelines of what to wear, followed by suggestions for both male and female interviewees.
General guidelines:
• Plan what you’re going to wear well in advance. Make sure it’s clean, simple and pressed. Remember, you’re not dressing up for a night out with your friends. When in doubt, err on the side of being slightly over-dressed rather than too casual
• Clean your shoes – people do notice
• Don’t wear a cap, beanie or hoodie
• Wear clothes that fit properly
• Don’t show off too much cleavage and midriff
• Keep accessories classic and simple
• Use make-up subtly
• Don’t overdo it on perfume or aftershave, and on the flip-side, don’t arrive smelling of cigarettes
• Keep hair well trimmed and clean
• Be aware of covering tattoos and removing piercings if not appropriate for the job role
Guide for men:
• Wear a suit in a solid colour; dark colours are usually considered more formal
• Long sleeved shirt in white, or a colour coordinating with the suit
• Belt
• Tie – classic and not comical
• Dark socks
• Dark shoes
• Carry a briefcase
Guide for women:
• The suited look is a great choice for business and professional interviews. It makes it easy for the interviewers to visualise you in such a role. Solid colours or pinstripes set the tone best. Trousers or skirt are fine, but the skirt should be long enough to sit down in without revealing too much leg
• White or solid coloured blouse or top
• Nude tights if wearing a skirt
• Smart, clean shoes
• Keep hair tidy and not hanging over your face
• Carry a portfolio or briefcase
