What Do I Wear in an Interview? Is it Important?

Your appearance is not everything, since you need to possess the skills to be qualified for the job, but during the interview, it is essential that you are well groomed.  By presenting yourself as clean and well kept, you are showing that you not only took the extra time to look your best, but that you care about the position by dressing the part.

Tips to Help You Look Your Best

• Make sure you are clean and have used deodorant  

• Don’t wear perfume or cologne (some people may have allergies)

• Use mints before the interview if you need to freshen up (no one likes bad breath)

• Wear a clean shirt and ironed shirt

• It’s OK to wear old shoes just make sure that they are clean and polished, wearing close toed shoes is best.

• Keep jewelry to five or less items and avoid large earrings that could be distracting or bracelets that you may be tempted to play with.

• Only wear a watch if you know that you will not be tempted to look at it.  You do not want to appear to be bored or look like you have more important things to do during the interview.

• Make sure your fingernails are clean and trimmed

• The MOST IMPORTANT:  Wear a SMILE

For Tips on What to Wear for Men and Women Click on the link below

http://jobsearch.about.com/od/interviewsnetworking/a/dressforsuccess.htm

Business Casual or Suit?

For a few jobs such as if you were interviewing for a big business’s sales position you may need to wear a suit to the interview, but if you are applying for a secretary position, retail position, manufacturing position, or the like, wearing business casual is your best bet.  If you are not sure exactly what would be appropriate call the business and ask the secretary that you are applying for (positions name) and you wanted to know what the appropriate attire is for an interview.  

Business Casual for Men

• Khaki pants or black pants
• Polo or Dress Shirt (solid color or two and don’t wear a busy pattern)
• You may wear a tie with the dress shirt, but this is not always necessary
• Trimmed facial hair (if you have any)
• Black or brown belt to match close toed shoes

Business Casual for Women

·        The skirt should be worn at, below or just above the knees  

·        A blouse that does not reveal cleavage is appropriate to wear for an interview

·        Khaki pants or black pants are also appropriate

·        Close toed shoes with less than a three inch heel are appropriate

·        Painted fingernails are acceptable if it is a clear coat, red, or a neutral color.

To look PROFESSIONAL, be CONSERVATIVE in your attire.

With your great personality and skills, your professional look will top off your attributes and help land you the job.  Take advantage of this edge and look your best!