by: Yin Lo | Client Relationship Manager
You’ve pieced together the perfect paper resume, which has helped you get a face-to-face interview with the hiring manager. What now? The next step will be to mentally prepare your self for the interview process. Interview preparation will consist of researching the company, knowing your strengths/weaknesses going into the interview, and interview question preparation. However, don’t forget one extremely important element that could make or break you—dressing for success!
Time and time again, you’ve heard this phrase. Unfortunately, it’s one of the most-said and under-used tips out there. Truth be told, being well dressed will not alone land you the job but it will indicate to the employer that you’re serious about the position and company.
There is such a thing as overdressing but most often, job seekers are underdressed. Either way—both can definitely hurt you. Managers are given a short amount of time to interact with a candidate before having to make a hiring decision. Therefore, their first impression of you will be a strong one. Make sure it’s a good one!
Rule of thumb is to dress conservatively and professionally during the interview, no matter how the office dress code may be. Depending on the company, there could be anywhere from 1-4 rounds of interviews (possibly even more for high-level execs!). Make sure you have at least 2 sets or more of professional clothing. Though extremely expensive suits (again unless you’re a higher-level exec) aren’t required, quality does matter—being too economical may not always be the best way to go.
Men should wear a well-fitted dark one-breasted & buttoned suit (usually black or navy blue) with a white button up shirt and red or blue tie. Matching dress socks are a must with black dress shoes! You want to avoid flashy colors as this may draw unwanted attention, especially for a first round interview. Being clean shaven is also important!
Women should wear a well-fitted (but not tight) dark pant/skirt suit with a neutral colored blouse/button up underneath the jacket. Skirts should not be more than 2” above knee length and don’t forget the neutral skin-toned hosiery—no matter how much you want to show off your summer tan! Another important thing to remember is to wear dark colored closed-toed heels no higher than the traditional 2 ½ inches. Make-up should give off a natural look and jewelry should be minimal.
Both men and women need to have combed and conservative hair styles. Teeth should be brushed and though you may want to chew gum or have a mint before the interview, make sure you are not chewing gum during the interview. Strong perfumes/colognes should be avoided and no body odor should be apparent. Nails should be trimmed and neat.
As simple as the tips listed above sound, they do work! I say--dress for the role you are aspiring to be in. Just remember that your self-image makes a statement about how you see yourself and how you want others to see you.
Hello Yin! I really enjoyed your article, and will remember these tips when I get ready to interview. Quick question, is it preferred that I button my suit or leave it open (my interview suit has two buttons). Also, is it really important that my tie be perfectly snug and straight? I've been told some companies mark down if it's a little loose?
Look forward to your future blog posts!
Posted by: Douglas | May 22, 2008 at 04:06 PM