subject: What Attire To Wear For A Job Interview [print this page] by Louanne Baelde What you wear for a job interview is a lot more important than you think. Good first impressions are critical. Even if you say all the right things, if they dont like how you present yourself, it could cost you the job. Being well-groomed is therefore your very first assignment. The way you present yourself will be an important factor on how your potential employer will evaluate you. But what is appropriate attire for an employment interview? Try to create in your head the image that you think they may be looking for with their new candidate. Then try to copy that image. If you think you can get by with what you have in your wardrobe closet, fantastic. But this may not be the case for everyone. You know, all you need is one smart looking outfit. A different outfit for each interview is not necessary. Realize that you want to appear dressed up enough to show that you take the job seriously, but you dont want to overdo it either. Keep the style conservative. Dark navy and black is always a great choice. Save the flashy colors and prints for your nights out. Keep in mind that clean and simple is best. If youre not sure what to wear, a basic black suit and white blouse is always nice. Pants or a skirt works, just be sure that the skirt is not too short. No see-through or low-cut tops. You dont want the sexy look right now. Remember, you want to look professional. If you are wearing pants, forget the Capri pants and instead go for the longer sleek look. Girls, leave the shiny jewelry at home. Instead go for the basic small pearls or plain earrings. And dont wear tons of makeup. A little goes a long way. Dont wear the ankle bracelet. And as for your nails, they should be well-groomed but without bright nail polish of course. Be sure that your hair is well-placed, but not overdone. Dont come into the interview looking like a mess, or like you just got out of bed. A small heel is appropriate. Keep your high heels for the party. For you guys, make sure you look neat and presentable. Have clean and polished shoes. Keep also the conservative darker colors in mind. If youre wearing a suit, make sure that your tie matches the suit of course. Keep the patterns to a minimum. For an interview, plain is best. Forget the earring, and of course, hide the tattoos. Always wear a collar and forget the turtleneck. If youre wearing a shirt, choose the long-sleeve version. White is always best. Assure that the shirt is neatly pressed, and that it is a perfect fit. Know how to dress appropriately for the interview depending on the job that you are seeking. Showing up with a suit to work as a mechanic is like wearing a tuxedo to a pool party. Guys and girls, forget about the shorts and sleeveless tops, no matter how hot it is. Always take a shower and brush your teeth right before you go for the interview. You want fresh breath and absolutely no body odor. And please, dont smoke or eat garlic right beforeyou leave to go out the door. Keep the chewing gum at home. Take a quick look in the mirror before you go into the interview room, ifthere is that chance. Check to see that there is no food between your teeth, or that your hair is not sticking up at the top or the back of your head. If everything looks A-okay, then youre certainly ready to go!
