Interview Attire Tips

Written by Carol Elizabeth Ridolphi  ~  Saturday, 04 October 2008 23:19

You only have a few seconds to make a great impression on your job interviews. You should always dress more conservatively than leisurely. Business casual dress... is, in most all cases, not the right dress style for the first interview, unless the company has made a point of telling you their dress code is business casual in advance of your interview.

Dressing appropriately for your first job interview will always impress the interviewer ~ it shows that you take pride in your appearance and that you have respect for the company and the interviewer!

Men - Interview Attire

• Two-piece business suit in navy or gray, single breasted
• Long-sleeved shirt in white or light blue
• Necktie should be silk with a conservative colored pattern ~ keep in mind red is the traditional power color (avoid cartoon characters and large prints)
• Wear over-the-calf dark (brown or black) socks ~ the socks should match your slacks or shoes
• Shoes can "make or break" your look ~ they should be conservative, clean, polished and comfortable in black or brown; avoid loafers. Scruffy shoes or casual shoes are a major turnoff!
• Your shoes and belt should be the same color ~ do not mix black and brown

Women - Interview Attire

• Two-piece business suit in navy, black or gray, single breasted. A skirt suit is preferable to a pantsuit ~ before choosing, check the corporate culture
• Avoid short, tight, and clingy skirts ~ skirt length should be no higher than two inches above the knee when standing
• A white silk or polyester blouse or a shell with a conservative neckline is a good choice to wear underneath your suit jacket ~ solid colored tops create a businesslike look ~ high contrast combinations, ie., navy suit worn with a white blouse/shell convey the highest authority
• Wear closed-toe pumps with heels no higher than three inches ~ avoid open-toe and strappy high heels
• Wear skin-colored hosiery