Suit Yourself!
Dressing for the Interview
In just the same way as CV writing tips, the internet has acres of advice on how to dress for an interview. Much of it is simply variations on a theme and states the screamingly obvious. In accordance with our practical, common sense approach, out of this mass of information we have filtered the vital points.
Appropriateness
We know you have heard this many times before but it is worth repeating as the single most important piece of advice.
Wear a suit; wear a suit; wear a suit.
This has become a clichéd piece of advice precisely because for most jobs it is exactly the right item to pull out of your wardrobe. A formal business suit is never wrong for either men or women. As an alternative women may wear dresses, trousers or a skirt but in all cases a jacket is essential. And yes, for men, a white shirt is best. But if, for example, you are a dance instructor required to demonstrate your ability, then you may need to wear specialist clothing or at least take it with you.
Creative jobs in fashion or advertising may require a little more individuality.
Acting your Age
Most of our jobseekers are mature. We are not suggesting that mature equates with boring but we are saying, unequivocally, that mutton should not dress as lamb. Women should keep those plunging necklines, micro skirts and spaghetti strap dresses for a night out with the girls; for men it is inadvisable to ditch the tie. Under-dressing suggests that you are not taking the job seriously. Yes, we know you have a personality to display but this is not the time for taking risks. Safe is best; less is more.
Comfort
Just because your black jacket is stylish is not a good reason for choosing it, if it is also tight across the shoulders. You need to be able to move easily and feel comfortable. The same rule applies to shoes. You are likely to be given a tour of the premises. You do not want to hobble!
Dress Code
Many employers do have a corporate, conservative dress code; others are more relaxed and contemporary. Some are strict about it. Find out what is acceptable before the interview.
Cases and bags
An overfilled, open handbag or a bulging briefcase does not give a good impression. Buy a slim, black document case and only take those certificates and documents that you really need. Don’t take two bags. Personal items, such as glasses, keys, even make-up can be slipped into the case itself.
Goes without saying.....
For men: black socks, sober silk tie. For women: restrained jewellery, subtle perfume, minimal make-up, tidy hair. For both sexes: long sleeves, clean nails, polished shoes, pressed clothes. Attend to the detail: no trailing hems or down at heel shoes.
Remember: the purpose behind dressing suitably is to give a positive first impression. You want to come across as capable, not sloppy. How you look and feel about yourself will affect your performance Clothes won’t get you the job but they will give you a competitive edge. They can help you project yourself as confident and successful.
Most importantly you do not want your clothes to distract or dominate. Your clothing should be unobtrusive; underlining your credibility and professionalism.
Simple, restrained, subtle is the way to go...............
