Dressing For Your First Job Interview First Impressions Are Lasting Impressions!

You have only one chance to make a good first impression

. Whether we like it or not, it only takes 30 seconds for someone to create an impression of who we are; our economic heritage, personality, education and success levels, our moral character and trustworthiness. Your clothes make a strong statement about you.

To be successful you must look professional.

What should I wear to the interview?

This of course will depend on the type of job that you are applying for. It is better to dress too formally than dress to casually. For those of you just starting out, or returning to workforce, if you want the job, you have to look the part.

For a more formal job, a classically tailored suit; a jacket and matching pant or skirt is a good investment, as it can be worn with different shirts and sweaters to create different looks. You are probably thinking that a suit costs a lot of money. If you dont have the cash flow to buy a new suit, these days you can pick up some great pieces from your local second hand shop.

For a less formal job, a skirt or pant with a blouse/shirt would be suitable. Guys, should wear a tie.

What about Grooming?

Hair - must be freshly washed and should look neat. Long hair should be tied back. Watch out for dandruff.

Makeup - don't go overboard - a light foundation, mascara, blush, and a neutral lipstick is great. Try to look as natural as possible. Avoid heavy eye shadows.

Nails - have clean nails and avoid bright nail polish - nothing looks worse than chipped nail polish.

Teeth - don't forget to clean your teeth - if you are prone to bad breath take some breath freshener with you and use just before you go in for your interview.

Perfume - be moderate with the use of perfume. You dont wont them to remember you because your perfume was too strong.

Stockings - it is best that stockings are sheer, not opaque (solid in colour that you cannot see through). Watch out for holes.

Shoes - a closed shoe is best - void sandals and very high heeled shoes. Shoes should be polished and coordinate back with your clothing.

Jewellery keep it simple - avoid too much jewellery, oversized bags, and worn brief cases. If you have to take documents, put them in a leather folio. You can also get pvc and plastic satchels if these are little too expensive. Leave out the nose ring and don't smoke before your interview. Avoid large dangling earrings.

Clothing Preparation - clothing must be clean and pressed. Check for holes or tears, hanging threads, broken or missing buttons. When wearing a jacket, it looks neater to have your buttons done up.

Skirt Length - avoid skirts that are too short. A suitable length, 2 cm above the knee. Also, avoid skirts that you too tight. A well fitted shirt should fall nicely over your hips and bottom, not hug it!

Revealing Tops avoid tops that are really low cut and show off too much cleavage. Yes, you might get the job but for the wrong reasons!

Ties for formal or semi-formal interviews always wear a tie. It looks more professional. You may find that the office you will be working in, the guys may not need to wear a tie.

Remember, you want to present a professional appearance.

Written by: Birgit Frances CareerClothing.comby: Peter Pinak

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