So you have submitted all your applications or handed in your CV to potential employers and you have started to receive interview invitations. I have written blogs on how to prepare yourself for an interview and what questions you could ask an employer but what should you wear for that interview and does it really matter?
Unfortunately it is absolutely critical as setting that first impression is extremely important. You are never going to be marked down for dressing too smartly! But what is appropriate interview attire? For the men this may seem obvious and relatively straight forward but there are pitfalls to be avoided. For woman, this can be a more challenging area to get right. So I thought it worthwhile setting out some of the principles I would aim to abide by:
Firstly, be over dressed rather than too casual. I have already alluded to this above, where if you are in doubt then just make that extra effort just to be sure. Here are some guidelines for men and woman in this regard:
Men:
- Suit: navy, black or grey (no funky colours or styles!)
- Long sleeved shirt (if it is new make sure you have ironed away the packaging creases!)
- Tie (again preferably something straight forward i.e. avoid overly funky or trendy ties at this stage and definitely make sure it is not fraying!)
- Dark socks (no matching your socks to your tie at this stage)
- Dark shoes (this could be black or dark brown although I always prefer to see black shoes and a black belt (these should match) as black goes with any suit colour.
- Ensure your aftershave is not over powering. You want the interviewer to remember what you said, not what you smelt like!
- Tattoos: If you can cover up tattoos and do not wear anything resembling football based jewellery. This should not be on show.
Ladies:
- Trouser or skirt/dress suit ideally navy, black or grey is ideal
- Professional shirt long or short sleeved (nothing overly flowery, colourful or patterned, although checks, stripes, or something similar is completely acceptable).
- Smart shoes: This can be heeled or not, just make sure they are black and comfortable.
- Limit jewellery: no point wearing that charm bracelet that will clatter on the desk as you speak or write things down in the interview (for example if there are forms or tests to be done). You are not going on a night out so no big dangling earrings either
- Tattoos: Same as the men above, cover up if you can.
- Subtle perfume: Same as the men above.
These tips may seem “traditional” but this means you avoid being marked down and hopefully once you secure the job then you can assess the style of the workplace and environment for work attire.
For those not applying for an office based job it doesn’t mean you should not be smartly dressed. You don’t need to wear a suit especially if you will not be wearing this type of clothing in your day to day job. However, it will go in your favour to be formal. So a smart shirt and trousers/skirt and if you are a man a tie is a good idea here too.
Few extra pointers:
- Polish your shoes: this shows attention to detail.
- Take into consideration your industry: For example if you are applying for positions with food and drink industry consider health and hygiene factors and how you would be expected to present yourself during working hours i.e. tie your long hair back, remove nail varnish and short finger nails, and make sure you have little or no jewellery on.
I hope that helps you prevent a clothing dilemma and takes you that step closer to securing that new job.
Good luck at your interview!