When you prepare for an interview, you want to look and feel your best. Yet choosing what to wear can be nerve-wracking, especially if you haven’t interviewed for some time or you’re not sure what clothing is considered appropriate in today’s workplaces.
How to Choose the Right Outfit for Your Next Interview.
Dress Like Your Supervisor
While you can’t go wrong with a suit, it’s not necessary interview attire for many jobs. Rather, seek to dress at least as well as you would expect the supervisor of that role to dress.
For example, if you’re seeking work in manufacturing and the plant’s foreperson wears khakis and a polo shirt, dress similarly. If you’re applying to a call center job where managers tend to pair dress slacks or skirts with a button-down shirt or blouse, do the same.
Dressing similarly to the person interviewing you helps put them at ease by mirroring their own commitment to the job. It also helps them see you in a responsible role.
When In Doubt, Don’t Take Chances
Dark colors and neutrals, like black, grey, navy, and khaki, are preferable to bright colors. Covering up skin is preferable to showing skin. Clean, groomed hair and subtle makeup are preferable to scruffy hair or obvious hues.
Your goal is to make you and your skills the most memorable part of the interview. If you think there’s a risk that an item of clothing, jewelry, body art, or makeup will steal the spotlight, make another choice or cover it up.
Neatness Goes a Long Way
Hiring managers, as a rule, won’t check your labels. They won’t know if your shirt, slacks, or shoes came from a designer brand or the clearance rack (or both).
Hiring managers will, however, notice if your clothes look like you don’t take care of them – or yourself. Before your interview, take time to make sure there are no visible stains, all your buttons are attached, and your clothes are clean and pressed. You’ll look better and you’ll feel more confident, too.
Looking For Your Next Job? We Can Help.
Whether you’re looking for your next career step, seeking a change in career paths, or entering the workforce, the recruiters at THE RIGHT STAFF, LLC can help. We connect job-seekers to some of the best job opportunities and employers in Minnesota. To learn more, contact us today.
