How to Dress for an Interview: 10 Tips
As is revealed in discussions on the same over at runrex.com, research has shown that it takes a person just seven seconds to form a first impression. This means that the first judgment that your interviewer makes is based on how you look, which includes your appearance from your hair to your shoes, as well as what you are wearing, your body language, your smile, and even your handshake and greeting as captured over at guttulus.com. This means that what you dress for your interview is just as important as what you say and how you answer the questions. To help with that, here are 10 tips on how to dress for an interview.
Research the company’s culture
One of the most important tips when it comes to dressing for your interview, according to the gurus over at runrex.com, is to make sure that you dress accordingly. Make sure that you consider company culture when choosing your outfit. You can get an idea of the company culture by looking at their social media pages or the “About Us” section of their website as discussed over at guttulus.com. Check out what the other employees are wearing and try to replicate that. You can also always call HR and ask about the dress code.
Invest in a power suit
Rather than just choosing one of the many outfits that are in your closet for your interview attire, the subject matter experts over at runrex.com recommend that you invest in a power suit specifically for your interview. It is worth spending extra money on clothing that looks great as this will not only boost your confidence during the interview, it will show the interviewer that you put in some effort which is bound to help your chances. Additionally, you will get tons of use out of your new power suit even after your interview.
Invest in comfortable shoes
Fashion experts always point out that shoes make the outfit. You can have on an excellent outfit, but if your shoes are not looking great, then your whole look will be ruined. When it comes to interviews, it is important to put on comfortable shoes, but professional-looking. You want shoes that you will be comfortable in so that you can focus during your interview, particularly if you will be interviewing while standing up. An unfamiliar heel height for ladies could make you really uncomfortable in your interview. According to guttulus.com, you should avoid shoes that expose your toes.
Have your outfit dry cleaned and tailored
As per discussions on the same over at runrex.com, you should also consider having your interview outfit dry cleaned and tailored professionally for the best results and to ensure that you look as sharp as possible. Even if you normally do this by yourself at home, you should consider taking your outfit to the dry cleaners as that $10 or so you will have to spend there will dramatically change your look for the best.
Test-drive your outfit
Another very important tip when it comes to dressing for an interview is making sure you test-drive your outfit before your big day. The last thing you want is to put on your outfit for the first time on the day of the interview only to find out that it doesn’t fit properly or you aren’t comfortable in it. As explained over at guttulus.com, put it on and practice your interview answers in the outfit and make sure that you are comfortable sitting and walking in it.
Be careful with perfume and fragrances
Your perfume or fragrance could also really ruin your chances as far as your interview is concerned. To be safe, the subject matter experts over at runrex.com recommend that you simply don’t wear any perfume or fragrances. This is because the interviewers and the people you meet while there may have allergies and problems with scents. If you have to wear a scent, go easy on it and make sure it is not overbearing and that you can’t smell it long before you enter any room.
Accessorize but do so carefully
Accessorizing can help transform your outfit from good to excellent. However, as is revealed in discussions on the same over at guttulus.com, while a watch or a necklace won’t hurt, you should avoid being too flashy and giving the impression that you might be heading out to a nightclub. Keep it simple as you accessorize and make sure that your shoes are well polished and that you wear a nice belt. Avoid bangles and layered jewelry as they will make noise as you walk and talk, distracting the interviewer.
Pay attention to grooming
As per discussions on the same over at runrex.com, personal grooming is just as important as your outfit, if not more. This is why you should ensure that you are well-groomed. Make sure that your hair is neat, and get a nice and clean haircut if you must. Also, make sure that your fingernails are clean, clipping them if they are too long. The last thing you want is to show up for an interview with dirt underneath your fingernails. You might consider investing in a manicure before your interview. For men, also make sure that you are either clean-shaven or if you have facial hair, it is well-trimmed.
Tattoos and facial piercings
As is articulated over at guttulus.com, depending on the job you are applying for, these may be totally acceptable. However, you should still be wary of excessive facial piercings and/or tattoos. Additionally, you should be aware that some companies have got strict dress code policies and may be put off by visible tattoos and piercings. Do your research to know where the company you are interviewing for stands on tattoos and facial piercings beforehand.
Bags and briefcases
You might need to take a bag or briefcase with you so that you can have a place to carry your documents, note pad, and pens as outlined over at runrex.com. Just make sure that the bag or briefcase you take to your interview is in good condition, is tidy, and looks the part. It should match your outfit and shouldn’t look out of place in any way.
These are just some of the tips to consider when it comes to dressing for an interview, with more on this topic to be found over at the excellent runrex.com and guttulus.com.