Dressing For Success
Interviewing Skills | Office of Career Services

The impression you make begins the moment you arrive at the interview site, so it is important to look both neat and professional at all times. In fact, employers indicate that what they see and hear during the first five minutes of the interview often provides them with enough information to make a decision about whether you will be further considered for an available position. It is very difficult to overcome a poor first impression, which is why this component is such an important one.

Research indicates that an interviewer will size you up and make judgments and evaluations before you even open your mouth. If you don’t look the part, don’t expect further consideration. Unfair? Possibly. However, it’s true that most employers will reject an unsuitably dressed applicant without a second thought.

Even if the company or organization is "corporate casual" you should still dress in professional business attire for an interview. Dressing professionally will always make a good impression and anything else is a risk. Be sure to choose clothes and shoes that are both comfortable and make you feel good, as they may be distracting otherwise and affect your interview performance.

The safest look for both men and women is traditional, professional and conservative. In most cases, this will translate into a professional appearance, which may give you the edge over your competition.

Consider These Tips:

• Be sure that shoes are neatly polished and in excellent condition.
• Do not wear perfume, cologne or after-shave. However, do wear deodorant.
• Make sure that hair is freshly cut and neatly groomed. Women with long hair should tie it back or put it up in a professional style. Men with facial hair should be sure that it is neatly trimmed and professional.
• Taking a shower and using deodorant are essential to good hygiene. Remember that you’re going to be nervous, so plan ahead.
• If you have any tattoos, make sure they are not showing if at all possible.
• Remember to bring breath mints with you.

Women

• Women should wear a professional, traditional and conservative business suit in a neutral color. Choices may include navy blue, charcoal, black, brown/tan, gray or maroon. Suits in any of the classic plaids may also be selected. The skirt length should not fall much above or below the knee and preferably be at knee length. Pantsuits are still generally not appropriate for an interview, although may be considered once you are hired.
• Blouses should be white, off-white or a color that compliments your business suit. An embossed material or very subtle print can be acceptable.
• Hosiery should be neutral in shade with no pattern in it.
• Shoes should be a low-heal (1-2 inches), closed-toe, closed-heel, leather, and should match the color of the suit or be the standard black.
• Jewelry should be limited to one ring on each hand, one pair of simple earrings no larger than a nickel; one necklace that is not overpowering and an interesting pin on the lapel of the blazer. Leave the earrings and pierced jewelry out of other body parts.
• Makeup should be natural and not overpowering.
• Watches should not have a plastic band and should look professional. Leave Bugs Bunny at home.
• Nail polish (if worn) should compliment the color of your business suit. Therefore, neutral colors are always preferred. If you nails are long, cut them to portray a professional image.

Men

• Men should wear a professional business suit in a dark, neutral color. Preferred choices include navy blue and gray. A subtle pinstripe is acceptable as well.
• Long-sleeved dress shirts should be white and made from cotton or a cotton-blend.
• Ties should be professional. Loud prints are unacceptable. A silk tie (not linen, wool or synthetic) should complement your suit and, when tied, come to the center of your belt buckle. Put the back of the tie through the label so it stays together.
• Socks should be black or should match the color of the suit. Socks should complement the suit and be long enough for you to cross your legs without showing a lot of bare skin.
• Shoes should be brown or black leather, and a dressy, professional style.
• Restrict your jewelry to one ring and a professional watch (see above). Do not wear earrings or other jewelry.