How Should I Dress For An Interview?

In selling yourself and your expertise, what you wear and how you present yourself is a part of the package. The first impression your interviewer makes about you is based on the way you look. The right dressing is a measure of the seriousness that you place on the position. Besides, if given two equally good applicants, the company may choose to hire the person who is dressed more professionally, the poor dresses job seeker always will exclude from further consideration.

Men

Long-sleeved shirt and dark slacks

Never wear a short-sleeved shirt and do not roll up the sleeved to an interview or any business purpose. That will destroy your executive image. For shirt color, white is the safest and the best choice. Besides, other pastels also acceptable if it not overdressed.

Ties

Choose a conservative pattern. Such as solids, small polka dots, diagonal stripes, small repeating shapes, subtle plaids and paisley.

Belts

Belts should match your shoes. Those with smaller buckles with squared lines look more professional.

Socks

Black socks are the best, followed by blue or gray, depending on your attire. Never wear white socks! Check your sock length, too--no skin should show when you sit down or cross your legs.

Shoes

Black or burgundy leather shoes with laces on them, because tassel loafers are very casual. Other suitable colors are brown, cordovan and navy.

Hair

Keep neat, short and preferably parted on the side. And shave off all those facial hair.

Jewellery

For man, wear no or little jewellery. The watch and wedding ring are the only acceptable pieces of jewellery to go with the male attire. Thin gold or leather-strapped watches look professional but not digital watches. Avoid political or religious insignias, necklaces or bracelets and cover up your tattoos if have.

Accessories

If possible, use leather briefcases or folders to hold copies of your resume. Use narrow briefcases and avoid plastic folders and plastic ball pens as they are out of place.

Women

Three-piece business suits, blouse and skirt or slacks, and cardigan twin-sets

No Sleeveless shirts! Short-sleeved blouses are okay when they are tailor-cut or have features such as a sports collar or double breast design to create a business-like look. Skirts can either be long or short where it falls no shorter than two inches from the knee.

Panty-hose or stockings

It’s must for professional grooming, but not with overly fussy patterns. Bring an extra pair for emergent use.

Shoes

Closed shoes with at least 1½-inch heels suggest a more professional look. Dark colors are best.

Hair

Hair longer than shoulder length should be worn up. Don't let it fall in front of your face and don't keep trying to fix it during the interview. Avoid large hair ornaments and trendy hairstyles.

Make-up

Be subtle; natural is the key word. Light shades of lip coloring and nail polish are recommended.

Jewellery

Be conservative. Studs of gold, silver or pearls are best. Do away with gaudy fashion jewellery, and those that clank and make noise when one moves.

Accessories

Folders and bags should blend well with the total professional look. Women should match their purse with their shoe color.