INTERVIEW ATTIRE

 

The consensus among college recruiters is that there is a professional profile that applies to both men and women when it comes to appearance in an interview:

·         Two-piece business suit

·         Consistent look: suit with dress shoes, not sandals or sneakers

·         Well-groomed hairstyle: avoid unusual styles or colors

·         Minimal cologne or perfume

·         No visible body piercings, including multiple earrings in one ear

·         No more than one ring on each hand

·         No visible body art: cover tattoos

 

Suggestions for Men:

·         Dark suit with dress shirt

·         Coordinating tie

·         Dark shoes and socks

 

Suggestions for Women:

·         Dark suit or pant suit

·         Coordinating business-style blouse

·         Hosiery and low to medium heeled pumps

·         Moderate make-up, accessories and jewelry

 

BUSINESS CASUAL

 

While business dress is the rule of thumb for the interview process, business casual is becoming more prevalent once you are on the job.  Throughout the United States, 70% of companies reported having a dress-down Friday where business casual is the norm.  Business casual does not mean relaxed dress or grooming.  While business casual varies greatly by industry, there are some basic guidelines to follow:

·         Go for a neat look.  Avoid frayed, wrinkled, or worn-out clothing

·         Do not wear jeans, shorts, T-shirts, sandals or sneakers

·         A blazer or sport coat adds a nice finishing touch

 

Suggestions for Men:

·         Khaki pants or dress slacks

·         Collared shirts, such as Polos, long or short sleeved cotton shirts

·         Loafers, clean deck shoes, or oxfords

 

Suggestions for Women:

·         Casual pant suits or skirts

·         Khaki or cotton slacks

·         Collared knit or cotton shirts

·         Twin sets

·         Avoid sundresses or sleeveless tops

 

Whether the situation calls for business professional or business casual, neatness in appearance and grooming are still the most important factors in dressing for success! Schedule that haircut, pick up your clothes from the drycleaners, and make sure your appearance reflects as positively on you as your qualifications do!

 

Adapted from – Johansen, K. and Steele, M. (Summer 1999). Keeping Up Appearances. Journal of Career Planning & Employment, pp. 45-53.