Last week a fresh graduate asked me whether her outfit was appropriate for interviews as she had worn the same outfit to 3 different interviews and hadn’t been called back for all of them. She was wondering whether her dressing was spoiling her chances of getting called back for a second interview
You need to create the right impression from the very moment you get to the venue of the interview. Your appearance and behavior should convey the same message as your answers to the interview questions-that you are intelligent, confident and experienced in the job you are interviewing for.
It goes without saying then that when you go for an interview you must look clean, well groomed and smart. This will give you the confidence boost you need. In general, you want to present a highly professional appearance in the manner that’s most appropriate for your field. Therefore, the way to look like a professional is:
- Be clean, fresh, tidy and well groomed
- Dress for an important meeting or presentation rather than your average everyday dress code
- Avoid extremes-if in doubt, lean towards a neutral style and colour
- Avoid fussy accessories-when you are nervous, it’s too tempting to fiddle with them
- Avoid anything flamboyant or funny when choosing ties, earrings, bags, belts, necklaces etc
- Dress in a manner that is professionally appropriate to the position for which you are applying. In almost all cases, this means wearing a suit. It is rarely appropriate to “dress down” for an interview, regardless of company dress code policy.
- Avoid anything that is too tight or too short as this will cancel your professionalism
- Dark colours convey professionalism better than light ones
- Plain colours are less distracting than busy patterns. For ladies, wear a conservative blouse with your suit. Do not wear bright colors, animal prints, or anything lacy, sheer, or low-cut.
- Your clothing should always be neat, clean, and ironed
- Your hair should be neat, clean, and conservatively styled.
- Quality shows. Well cut clothes in natural fibres with a good finish are essential
Generally, make sure that the outfit you choose is comfortable and trouble free and that you can sit in it comfortably without it riding up, twisting round or creasing and that you can stand up and shake hands without anything gaping or straining
Remember, dressing professionally shows respect for yourself, the interviewer, and the company!
Have a blessed week!