Dressing for a Job Interview

1 Comment //

 

You may have heard the expression “First Impressions Last” and it is never more true than in a job interview. We have all made an assumption based on the way other people are dressed, but think about how your impression may have changed once you got to know the real person. How long did it take for you to change your mind?

 

As an employer it is vital to use every second you have with an applicant to establish their suitability for the job. When you dress inappropriately the employer assumes you do not have an understanding of their business.

 So if you were going for a job in my clothing store what might you wear to the interview?? Would you wear the same thing if you were going for a job as a plumber? Consider the job and how appropriate your clothing is to the line of work.

 

Generally it is suggested to dress one standard higher than you would expect to wear on a daily basis in the job you are applying for. This is not a rule, so take the time to research not only the company, but also the person who is interviewing you to make a judgement of what their expectations might be. It will always be better to be overdressed than underdressed. If you are still not sure ask questions, try speaking to people who work in the kind of business you looking for.

 

Dressing well for a job is not just about clothing

 Things that are important to wear or present 

  • SMILE
  • Perfume – but not too strong
  • Posture
  • Cleanliness
  • Confidence

  What not to wear to a job interview 

  •  Arrogance/Attitude
  • Jeans
  • Inappropriate piercings or Large/loud Jewellery
  • Dirty Hair or hair covering your face
  • Unshaven Beard
  • Dirty, crumpled or ill-fitting clothing
  • Chewing gum
  • Hats/Sunglasses (always remember to take these off before entering the building of your interview)
  • Too much skin/cleavage/legs or clothing that shows your undergarments including bra straps and boxer shorts

Clothing for a job interview does not mean having you need a whole new wardrobe (sorry girls). You may find you already have something suitable in your wardrobe already. Even your school uniform pants (if they are neat and clean) can be used creatively to become suitable for a job interview. Don’t be too boring either. Use your appearance to tell a story about your personality and give your interviewer another reason to remember you.

 Fake it, till you make it

There is a lot behind how clothes make you feel. I was once told the statement “Fake it till you make it”. Clothing has he ability to make you feel certain ways depending on what you are wearing. If you are feeling unconfident and nervous, by dressing well, otherwise known as power dressing you can make your mind believe what your image is saying.

 

It is now up to you to put it all together, but don’t do it alone. Ask for help. Finally I would like to say that one of the most important qualities I have found in those I have interviewed are the people who show a willingness to do anything asked. If the question sounds unusual, answer it anyway, most employers have a reason why they ask certain questions – so be prepared.

 

 

 

Page 2 of 3123