Dressing for interviews is dressing for Success.

Dressing for interviews is key to your success in finding-the-perfect-job.

Many books have been written about the importance of appropriate attire for interviews.

Despite a current more casual dress code in offices today, the dress code for interviews attire remains conservative (sandals are out and neckties are in).

Remember that conservative is always in style for an interview despite what the current trend is. The interview is about showing off your qualities not your fashion sense.

Dressing for interviews – Men

Suit: it is recommended that men wear a conservative two-piece dark suit (blue and grey are preferred).

Shirt: Dress shirts should be a solid color, preferably white or cream. Be sure the shirt and suit are pressed/ironed.

Tie: It is also recommended that you wear a tie. The style and color should match the suit. Be careful not to be too trendy.

Shoes and Socks: Make sure your shoes are clean and polished. Socks should be a dark color (never white).

Cologne: Minimize or avoid the use of cologne as many people are sensitive or allergic to strong scents and interviews often take place in small meeting rooms.

Hair and Facial Hair: Neatly groomed hair is appropriate. Beards and mustaches should be well-groomed.

Fingernails: should be neat, clean and trimmed.

Body piercing: No visible body piercing should be evident.

Pockets: should be empty --avoid bulges and tinkling coins

Light briefcase or portfolio case should be carried.

Also avoid:

Stained shirts and ties,
Hair curling over your shirt collar,
Socks around the ankle that will show if you cross your legs,
Shirts that are too tight or missing buttons.

Dressing for interviews – Women

Suit: As with men, it is recommended that women wear suits in neutral or dark colors (black, navy, brown, grey). Insure that the skirt length is appropriate- Just above the knee is best.

Shirt: Dress shirts should be a solid color, preferably white or cream. Be sure the shirt and suit are pressed/ironed. Avoid sleeveless blouses.

Shoes and Nylons: Moderate shoes with conservative heels are best. Make sure they are, polished and match your suit (or be a shade darker). Nylons should close to skin color. Make sure that they do not have any runs!

Jewellery: Minimize jewellery. Large jewellery may be distracting in an interview.

Perfume, make-up: Minimize or avoid the use of perfume as many people are sensitive or allergic to strong scents and interviews often take place in small meeting rooms. Minimal use of make-up is recommended.

Fingernails: should be neat, clean and trimmed. If you wear nail polish use a neutral or clear color.

Hair: Styling should be simple and well-groomed.

Also avoid:,

Stains on suits or shirt,
Badly cuffed high heels,
Hanging hems.

Purchasing a new suit may be costly but it is a good investment.

Learn More interview tips.

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