DRESSING FOR AN INTERVIEW
Look Like The Right Person For The Job
In an interview first impressions are very important. One aspect of first impressions is appearance. There are three factors that determine appearance. These are dressing, grooming, and hygiene. Many employers will make a split-second judgment based on the job seeker’s appearance. How you, as a job seeker, look is important to how you will be received by the employer. Plan your appearance for the interview just as you plan what you are going to say.
Dress Like The Right Person For The Job
Here are some guidelines to dressing for an interview: Dress one step above what might actually be worn on the job. For example, if jeans and a T-shirt are the dress for the job, you should wear nice casual clothes for the interview (for a woman skirt and blouse and for a man shirt and slacks). If you have a jacket that goes with your nice skirt or slacks, put it on for the interview. And no matter how warm the weather, women should wear panty hose and men wear socks. By visiting the company before the interview and noting the dress of employees in positions similar to the one you are seeking, you can determine the kind of clothing worn on the job. Dress one step above what people in similar positions would wear on the job?” Otherwise, you should dress one step above the clothing that common sense or past experience suggests appropriate for the job. A “dress rehearsal” a day or two before a scheduled interview could be beneficial. Dress exactly as you would for the interview and ask a friend or relative, “I am going to interview for a job. How do I look? Do I look like the right person for the job? If no one is available to give you helpful comments, then stage your “dress rehearsal” in front of a mirror. Even though some jobs require that you “dress up” or “dress down,” it is important to remember to avoid extremes. For example, do not wear jeans, T-shirt, and tennis shoes for an interview. But, on the other hand, do not wear a dress and shoes you might put on for a fancy party or a dance. Dress in clothing that is clean, neat, pressed, and in good repair (no missing buttons, tears in seams, or hanging hems). Dress conservatively. Avoid “loud” colors or prints and obvious mismatches between gaudy jewelry and accessories. Shoes should be shined, and belts, purses, and any other accessories should complement your outfit and be in good repair.
Be Well-Groomed, Like The Right Person For The Job
Grooming and hygiene are also related to appearance. Even the nicest clothes won’t cover up poor habits. An employer will expect the right person for the job to be well groomed. Grooming is especially important during an interview.
The following are basic rules of good grooming and hygiene that must be maintained for a good interview: Hair should always be clean, combed and neatly styled. Men, be sure to shave before going for an interview. Moustaches and beards should be neatly combed and trimmed. If you are clean shaven but intent upon growing a mustache or beard, you should wait until after you get the job to let facial hair grow (few can deny the unattractive quality of a mustache or beard in the beginning stages). Fingernails should be clean and neatly trimmed. Women, remove chipped nail polish or reapply a topcoat to hide uneven edges. Makeup should not be excessive, and perfume and aftershave should be applied sparingly. Keep in mind you want to be noticed for your neat, business-like appearance. If you wear glasses, make sure to clean them before the interview. Polish your shoes. If you wear jewelry, be conservative. (Women, no dangling earrings or bangle bracelets. Men, even though you may feel an earring or other trendy jewelry signifies a statement of personal style, employers are seldom receptive.) Please remember to remove your hat or cap as soon as you get indoors. Again, clothing should be clean, neat and in good repair.
Some Last Minute Interview Reminders
Arrive for your interview about 15 minutes early. This gives you time to relax, to review your resume, or look over company literature. You’ll look your best when you are not rushed. Also avoid smoking, eating, or chewing gum while you wait. Even though your interview hasn’t started, others may already be “sizing you up”. Know the interviewer’s last name and how to pronounce it and address him/her as Mr. or Ms. Offer a firm handshake (you may want to practice your handshake). Using the interviewer’s name and having a good handshake are part of “first impressions”, which are very important in a job interview. Greet the interviewer by introducing yourself, Hello, Ms.__________. My name is __________. I am here to interview for the _______position.” When you are offered a seat, sit up straight and look the interviewer in the eye. Don’t be afraid to smile. Continue to maintain good posture and eye contact throughout the interview. If you are invited to have a beverage, it is best to decline. A beverage in your hand or at your elbow could distract you from your purpose, looking like, sounding like, and being the right person for the job.
Dress for Success!