Office of Career Services

·         An employer will form an initial opinion based on your appearance and behavior before you even speak People size you up in a very short time, in 3-5 seconds                                                                                   

·         First impressions influence the way the interviewer perceives all subsequent information about you and can have a strong effect on the rest of the interview                                                                                               

·         Dress professionally for a job interview, even if the work environment is casual

How should I Dress

·         Understand of the standard dress code by industry. 

o   Research organization and industry to evaluate the most appropriate standard. A suit is always recommended.  If you feel that is too formal for your industry dress business casual.

o   Review the website

o   Speak to alumni/networking contacts

·         Check out the website

·         Know the corporate culture

·         Consider the type of position you are applying for

Dress for Success

Women

Business Attire

·         Suit ~ It is recommended that the suit be grey, blue, or black

·         Skirts ~ Formal and knee length or just below.  Be conscious of how your short your skirt is when you sit down

·         Paints suit ~ Are appropriate for interviews with less conservative organizations.

·         Blouse/Sweater ~ Wear solid colors or subtle patterns that are white, ivory, or light blue.  Avoid low cute, lace, ruffles, and shiny fabrics

·         Shoes ~ Choose basic, conservative black pumps.  Low heels are recommended (2 1/2” at most).  Closed toe and heel

·         Accessories ~ Jewelry should be minimal and  appropriate for population

Business Casual

·         Skirts ~ Knee length or longer. Be conscious of how your short your skirt is when you sit down

·         Pants ~ Should be well tailored and not tight.

·         Blazer ~ Wearing a blazer creates a more professional look.  Choose a solid shade or subtle design

·         Shirts/Blouses/Sweater Set~ You can be creative, but use discretion, avoid anything low cut.   Soft pastels and subtle patterns are best.

·         Shoes ~ Should have closed toe and heel.  Avoid very high heels (2 ½” at most). Style and color must match outfit

·         Accessories ~ Jewelry should be minimal and appropriate for population

Hair, Makeup and Perfume

Hair

·         Should be simply styled and not draw attention

·         Bangs are okay, but should not cover eyebrows

·         Avoid hair styles which excessively cover the face

·         Avoid spiked, gelled or unnaturally colored hairstyles

Makeup and Perfume

·         Be conservative with makeup. Should not be noticeable and should match complexion

·         Consider avoiding perfume, since interviewer may be allergic

Men

Business Attire

·         Suit ~ Mid to dark colored with a light to mid blue shirt (white creates a more formal look).  Other pastels are ok.  Wear a silk tie that coordinates with suit and shirt.

·         Shoes ~ Clean, polished and black. Burgundy or brown are fashionable, but a little risky for an interview

·         Belt ~ Should match shoe color

·         Socks~ Coordinate with suit.  They should be same shade or a shade darker and solid or with a subtle design

Smart casual

·         Khakis or slacks ~ Darker colors are dressier

·         Sport coat or blazer ~ Choose a jacket in a solid shade or a subtle design (no bold, bright patterns or colors)

·         Casual Shirts ~Long-sleeved button-down with a solid pastels or small subtle patters.  No black.

·         Sweaters ~ Sweater alone or under a sport coat is a great look add a tie for a touch of elegance

Attention to detail is critical

1)      Clean and polished dress shoes are imperative

2)      Suit, shirt and skirt should be clean and pressed

3)      Hair should be well-groomed

4)      Make sure fingernails cleaned and trimmed

5)      Avoid perfume (some people are allergic)

6)      Avoid flashy jewelry and watches. Keep it simple

7)      Well-brushed teeth and fresh breath are a must

8)      Finally, check your attire in the rest room just before yourinterview

9)      Make sure you are ready for the moment

Final Tips

Shop Smart 

·         You do not need to buy several suits for different interviews at the same company, you can wear the same suit twice just wear different a different shirt, tie, jewelry, and/or scarf each time

·         You do not need to spend a fortune - Start by looking at higher-end stores to look at interview wardrobe possibilities, but when you are ready to buy something and money is tight, head for the outlet stores

·         Use a portfolio or briefcase to bring your material to the interview. Not a backpack.

·         Turn your cell phone off

·         Do not chew gum, eat or drink during the interview