Interview: Dress For Success-What Not To Wear

¨Workout Gear

No running suits, tank tops, spandex, running shoes, bike shorts or anything you would wear to do your favorite hobby.  Unless you are trying out for a job as a fitness trainer or athletic wear is required for the job, leave the fitness outfits at home.

¨Underwear as Outerwear

No under wear such as camisoles or undershirts should be worn as a top layer. No part of the underwear such as straps or lace should be visible.

¨Shorts

Shorts are never appropriate even if part of a short suit. Shorts are too casual for an interview in a professional environment.

¨Visible Tattoos

Tattoos have become very main stream, but should remain out of sight during an interview. Conservative companies may ask you to keep them covered while on the job. Cover them with long sleeves or make-up.

¨Body Piercing

Take out body piercings except for one pair of earrings for women. Many workplaces do not allow them and they should never be worn during the interview.

¨Excessive Jewelry

Think conservative not flashy. No dangling earrings for women.  Think classic like pearls or a simple gold chain for women. Men should forgo chains and multiple rings per hand. Nothing should distract the interviewer from what you are saying. Think simple, conservative and elegant.

¨Dirty, Ripped or Wrinkled Clothing

Put your best foot forward. Everything you wear must be cleaned, well pressed and in good repair.  Replace any missing buttons. Socks must match. Do not mix stripes and checks.  Watch color selections so nothing is clashing.  Men should were ties that are simple without a lot of pattern. No funny or cute ties to get attention. Check over any planned outfit several days ahead of time to be sure it is clean, pressed and in good repair.  Take any action needed.

¨Excessive Make-up or Wild Hair Color

No make up for men, Women should again wear natural looking make up. Save the bold colors and heavy eyeliner for the clubs.   Color should be a natural color. No purple, green or orange.  Hair style should be modest and conservative.  Have a family member give you feedback on hair and make up choice.  If you can afford it get a hair cut shortly before the interview.

¨Too Much Perfume or Cologne

Your scent should not arrive before you do.  It is a good idea to give it up for the interview. If you do wear it, use a modest amount.

¨Poor Grooming
Socks should match, no athletic shoes, no white socks. Watch the small details. For men any facial hair should be trimmed and well kept. Being clean shaven is preferred.  Make sure there is no food caught in the beard.

¨Edgy Manicures

Short neatly trimmed nails are best. Women should use conservative polish.  No black nail polish, flashy decals or long fingernails.  Hands and nails should be clean.

¨Mini Skirts

Skirts should be knee length to mid calf.  Avoid too long or two short. No long slits allowed either. You should be able to sit comfortably without exposure.

¨Revealing Attire

Too little clothing is not the image you want to project. Wear serious clothes to be taken seriously. Your back, arm and cleavage should be covered. There should be an inch of room between to body and fabric to avoid too tight a fit.

¨Low rise pants or bare midriff

There should be no exposure at all around the middle. Men wear a belt so pants sit at the waist.  A blazer or suit jacket provides good coverage.

¨Scandals or scruffy shoes

No sandals, Shoes should be polished. If wearing shoes with laces they should be in good repair.  Dress shoes only for interviews.

¨No Hose

No bare lets. If wearing a skirt wear panty hose. There should be no runs or rips in the panty hose. Color should be neutral or conservative.

Remember when you are hired you represent your organization.  You will be hired for your skills and for how well you will fit in with your teammates and the company culture. Dress the part if you want the job.

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