Dressing for Success at the Interview

Prepare through practice

Prepare and practice for a job interview is as important as the interview itself, so after the date and venue for an interview has been set, the job applicant should allow enough time for interview preparation so that on the big day s/he can be relaxed, confident and poise throughout the interview.

Understanding that first impressions “are lasting impressions,” the manner in which an applicant appears, speaks and conducts him/herself really matters alot. An employer could easily base his/her hiring decision on any element of dress, speech or conduct during the initial interview.

Better questions and overall interaction can be achieved if the appearance itself commands respect; but in order to accomplish this it is important to consider the environment of any company granting you an interview. It is important to point out here that there is no reason for a job applicant to be over dressed, nor is dressing poorly acceptable during this very significant day.

Dress to impress

In fact, it is a good rule of thumb to always dress appropriately for any situation, because all too often appearance is not given the attention necessary to make it satisfactory. Some might say that the person’s inner characteristics matter more, but in reality you only have one opportunity to make a good first impression you should make it count!

Although there are specific guidelines that can be followed however, such rules of the road may not apply to all states, especially trend-setting areas like New York, California, Chicago, Paris, London and other such locales where people wear trendy to extreme styles that are far away from the usual fashion rules average people adhere to. The rule of thumb should be to wear something that could boost more confidence.

Following are some recommendations for interview conduct:

• Avoid wild colored nail polish before the interview. The same goes with long nails that could easily turn off some conservative employers. These should be neat and very tidy looking.
• Never wear jewelry that rattles and jiggles as you speak and move. Try not to wear two or more rings or earrings. Piercing aside from the ears is also a no.
• Professional hairdo also counts
• If you are a woman, wear closed shoes. Heels are very appropriate as this gives more confidence to an individual and sense of respect is also provided once they see the person wearing them.
• Again, for the ladies, never bare those newly shaven legs. If possible, use stockings regardless of the temperature; but make sure not to use fancy colored ones. Only use those made for neutral looking legs. These should also match the shoes.
• Remember that a good suit or dress brings more confidence as well. This will also allow more comfort and chance for the applicant to answer comfortably or with ease.
• Avoid short skirts for women. Wearing pants or leggings are a no, no during interviews.
• Wear the appropriate blazers just as long as they do not look fashion outdated. Do not wear any leather coats or jackets.
• For men, the tie is still appropriate. Avoid using turtlenecks. If there is no suit and tie available, use a collared shirt or white long sleeves.
• Men must not use too much aftershave.
• Women should be using bags that are not too bright and conspicuous. These should be conservative and matching the dress.
• Any briefcase used must be in perfect condition.

The way a person looks equals the message s/he is trying to convey, and during an interview, this can either become a plus factor for the applicant or big loss. Know for a fact that the way an applicant should look must be appealing and fashionable but not loud.

Consider latest trends in the area or location where the prospective job is located. One aspect that is a part of how employer picks a new hire is based on the physical attributes of the applicant. From the way his/her hand was shaken, keeping an eye contact and his/her posture was maintained, to how a smile was delivered and the manner of dress are all being rated.

Regardless of your personal career background, skills and underlying talents; if the first impression was never striking enough to make an outstanding appeal to interviewers, nothing else really counts. This can be the potential employers’ initial interpretation of how an applicant will do on the job; and whether that perception is “fair” is irrelevant. Do you want the job? Look the part and your chances for success will be much greater!