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Dress for the Interview

One of the main reasons people do not get hired today is still improper appearance for the interview. There is no second chance when it comes to first impressions. How you look reflects how you see yourself, and your appearance can give the potential employer many answers about you.

Here are a few guidelines:

Men
  • Dress as you think your supervisor would dress.
  • Some positions require casual business attire. For these interviews wear clean, freshly pressed slacks with a collared shirt. Depending on the job, the shirt can be open at the neck or with a conservative tie.
  • Some non-professional supervisory positions dictate the same dress code as for the professionals, managers, or businessmen.
  • Professionals, managers, and business men should wear a dark suit, perfectly pressed, a white or light blue dress shirt, and a conservative tie. Dark socks should be worn with polished dark shoes.
  • Don't wear sandals!
  • No earrings.
  • Pay careful attention to detail:
    • Have a freshly cut conservative hair style. Short is appropriate for most positions.
    • Be clean shaven (A neatly trimmed mustache is fine.)
    • Have clean trimmed fingernails.
    • Have an overall well-groomed and neat appearance.
Women
  • Regardless of the position sought, wear a tailored suit or a dress. Slacks or pants are not considered appropriate attire.
  • Dress conservatively, don't be trendy.
  • Shoes should be clean and polished with a small heel and closed toe.
  • Don't wear sandals!
  • Jewelry should be minimal, such as a watch, a ring or two at most, simple earrings (one in each ear ONLY), and a simple chain or pin.
  • Hose should be neutral in color.
  • No large purses.
  • If carrying a briefcase, do not carry a purse at all.
  • Grooming is one key to a good impression:
    • Have clean neatly styled hair (Long hair should be pulled back or worn up.)
    • Fingernails should be manicured to a moderate length and polished with clear polish or a neutral soft shade.
    • Minimal use of makeup (it should not be too noticeable.)
Remember, appearance speaks louder than words!


For more information on proper attire for job interviews and other useful tips, pick up a copy of Job Search Essentials, The Job Hunting Handbook and Planning Job Choices® Magazine from the CP&P Office.

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This office does not discriminate in its job referral program, nor does it support organizations that do discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, disability, or any other constitutionally or statutorily impermissible reason.

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