Career Advice

Does appearance really matter when interviewing for a new job? The answer is definitely, “YES”! Your interview attire could be the reason you receive an offer letter, or on the flip side, a rejection letter. It is always important to dress professionally to an interview because this will be your chance to make the best possible first impression on your potential employer. You will be visually assessed before you even answer the first interview question. Here are a few tips on what to wear, to make a great first impression:

• Plan ahead. Do not wait until the day of the interview to decide on an outfit. It is best to set aside your clothes a couple of days in advance to avoid undue stress and anxiety. You do not want last minute indecisiveness to impair your ability to arrive to work on time.
• Know the industry and review company website. Appropriate attire can differ between industries and companies. A job in a creative environment, an advertising agency for instance, may be more lax in dress code requirements versus a position at an investment banking firm. If you do not know the industry standard, it is best to dress more conservatively. In these cases, it is better to be overdressed than to be underdressed.
• Dress comfortably. It is important to be comfortable when interviewing. Do not wear shoes that are hard to walk in or a shirt that is too tight. It will interfere with your ability to concentrate and your agitation will surely get the attention of the interviewer. You want your skills and assets to stand out, not the fact your pants are too tight for you to sit comfortably.
• Do not forget your skill set is most important and the interview is not a fashion show. Avoid bright colors and patterns that may distract the interviewer. The goal is to look presentable and classy.

Here is a quick list of basic items that can be worn:

• Solid color, conservative suit (a dark pinstripe is also acceptable) and for women, a skirt or pants is acceptable.
• Coordinated shirt - for men this should be a collared shirt with a conservative tie and women should avoid excessive cleavage.
• Limited jewelry - not too flashy or large
• Professional hairstyle
• Clean, neat nails
• Moderate, polished shoes - women should avoid very high heels that are uncomfortable or difficult to walk in
• Light (or no) perfume or cologne - your interviewer may have an allergy or a general dislike for strong fragrances.

Be sure to make an excellent first impression during your interview. Whether you are a recent college graduate or a seasoned professional, your interview attire could be the first step in gaining that career you have always dreamed of.