Your interview is not the venue for
a “What Not to Wear” episode. Your fashion
individuality should be left at home. Follow these tips
to make a good first impression with your future employer.
Don't try to distinguish yourself by
way of your attire; that's more likely to be harmful or
distracting than helpful. Stand out by polishing your
interviewing techniques, brushing up on corporate and
industry knowledge, and by arriving punctually, well-rested
and well-groomed. It's important that you never let your
clothes, for better or for worse, upstage your performance.
Suit Color:
Women should choose a dark suit in black, navy
blue, or gray for a job interview. Avoid patterned suits
other than those with subtle stripes. Ideally you'll want
to own at least two interview suits of varying colors.
You can, however, simulate a second suit by simply using
different blouses underneath the same one.
Blouse:
While white or ivory are always safe bets, any light tone
that matches your suit is appropriate. The fabric should
always be natural-either silk or cotton.
Style:
Skirts are traditionally preferable to pantsuits as they
are more formal, but in all the most conservative of environments
either are acceptable. Your suit should be comfortable,
but not casual or sporty in appearance. The climate may
factor into your decision; a skirt is preferable in wet
weather since pants may get damp, but wrap-around skirts
can be tragic on windy days.
Fit: Avoid
tight-fitting suits! Suit jackets should fit so that they
can be easily buttoned without any noticeable pull marks
across the fabric. Skirts should at least reach your knees.
Shoe Color and Style: Interviewees should wear
dark, polished, closed-toe leather pumps that match the
interview suit or are one shade darker than it. The heel
should be one to two inches high, according to your height.
Try not to wear a brand new pair of shoes since walking
may be awkward or uncomfortable at first. If necessary,
break new shoes in at home before your interview.
Belt:
If you are wearing a belt, choose a small, conservative,
solid-colored leather style belt with a simple buckle.
It should match your shoes and purse.
Purse:
Your purse should be small and plain, matching your shoes
and belt. Avoid using an everyday purse for an interview,
especially if it is filled with belongings. If you are
carrying a cell phone or pager in your purse, turn it
off before you begin your interview!
Make-up and
Nails: If you wear make-up, be sure to use light
shades for an interview. Apply it in a bright room to
simulate the lighting conditions in most offices. Nail
polish should also be of a light shade or clear. Of course,
make sure your nails are properly manicured and are clean.
Stockings:
Wear plain stockings that best match your skin tone. Keep
a spare pair tucked away in your purse for emergencies.
Jewelry: Jewelry
should be kept to a minimum. If you wear earrings, plain
studs are the most cautious. A single necklace is acceptable,
as is a watch and a ring or two. You may wish to add a
pin to your suit jacket to add color and pizzazz, but
be sure to shy away from any controversial insignias.
Perfume:
Use only a little perfume, or none at all. People can
be allergic to certain perfume scents, plus you'll probably
be seated in a confined space.
Hair:
Your hair should be clean, dry and neatly combed. Women
with longer hair should wear it back so it doesn't become
a distraction. Dressy hair clips should replace more bulky,
everyday clips. If it is damp on the day of your interview,
take this into account and adjust your hairstyle accordingly
to avoid frizzing. Always carry an umbrella if there's
even a remote chance of rain or snow.
