According to a recent survey, 37 % of bosses have rejected an interview candidate based on their appearance. When it comes to making a great first impression and especially in this economic climate, what you wear to that important interview is very important.
Added to this there is a lack of hard and fast rules, what to wear to an interview is very much dependent on the industry and this leads us to my first tip:
1. Research the company:
The type and culture of the job you are interviewing for will largely dictate your dress. Where you are interviewing for a professional position in a corporate environment, of which we will discuss more later, the dress will be far more conservative than an interview for a creative role. In these situations, you may want to prove, through your choice of dress, that you have the discerning eye that’s just right for the role. While the rules of professionalism still apply, you have a little room to express your aptitude for creativity. Perhaps, wear a colorfully patterned item so your palette is more inspiring, however, remember to mix this with a professional item. Fashionable blazers and shirts can be found all over and will go a long way to anchor your outfit together, ensuring you look ready for the workplace, and not ready for a night out.
If you are still unsure go and have a coffee near your potential new office and watch people going in and out. Keep in mind though that on Friday employees will tend to dress more casually than the end of the week.
2. If in Doubt Dress Conservatively
Even where the normal attire of the job you are applying for is casual, this should not completely direct your choice of an interview outfit. For example where culture seems to be relaxed, stay on the smart side of casual, wear a smart pair of jeans and a tailored jacket as the bare minimum. In the main, though you should dress formally.
Invest in a high-quality new outfit and pay attention to the fit and cut. A well-tailored outfit suggests you are conscientious and show attention to detail in other areas. Also important is taking the time to check your suit fits. While it may be hitting a perfectly respectable part of the knee on that mannequin, on more normally proportioned people it may be sending out the wrong message. Skirts should be on or barely above the knee. Also, watch out for skirts or trousers that are too long.
3. Makeup:
The face you are presenting at an interview is very important. Your goal should be to portray competence, neatness, and attention to detail. Less is usually more, however, there are some tips and make-up you can use that will enhance what you say. Indeed, according to the Hamermesh-Biddle project women who wear subtle makeup earn 23% more than women who go without. To get a smart but sophisticated look use eye shadows in neutral shades such as browns and creams. Well defined eyebrows will show you pay attention to detail and a pop of blush will leave you with a healthy glow. By emphasizing eyes and mouth you are also emphasizing your means of communication.
4. Colour:
Looking professional doesn’t have to mean black however you should stick to classic corporate suit colors navy, grey or the ever-dependable black. Navy, in particular, is big this season and has bonuses of being versatile enough to pair with most colors and flattering to every skin tone. Orange is the worst color to wear at interviews, with huge 95% of executives finding it unacceptable. Red was next with 84% and pink after that, with 83% finding it disagreeable.
5. Personal Hygiene:
Whether to wear perfume is up for debate. Some experts warn it may be safer to leave it off, warning of negative connotations the interviewer may have with the smell or allergies. However, I think it worth the risk. Smelling good creates a positive impression, but still, keep it light!
6. Accessories:
Accessories can be a safe way of showing your personality and standing out from other applicants. However, accessorizing comes with a warning. For example, large dangly earrings are a definite no. While this may seem overly prescriptive, interviewers note that it often, in fact, distracts from what you are saying. You want interviewers to focus on your brilliant example,s rather than that gigantic swinging earing. Also, avoid big bracelets or cocktail rings that would obstruct the all-important handshake. Instead choose one bold piece, like a colorful necklace or watch.
As for stockings, this is another area of contention. While not necessary, if you fancy channeling your inner Kate Middleton buff or shoe color matching pantyhose may make you feel more comfortable.
Additionally, you can join some reputed training institute like Training Connection to improve your skills for Jobs or start your businesses.
