Congratulations on getting yourself an interview. You're already beaten off most of the competition to get to this point but there are still a few candidates to beat.
Getting the job now rests on this interview. You know your stuff by now; you've already researched the company and prepared answers to possible interview questions they'll ask you and you've even planned your route to get to the interview on time. However, how much time have you spent thinking about your interview outfit? And we mean really thinking! If you're at a bit of a loss, fear not. We've done the thinking for you.
What you wear to an interview can be as crucial to getting the job as what you say or how you behave. Naturally as humans we judge people within the first 20 seconds and in such little time there's not a lot you can say – however, your outfit can do some talking for you. you need to be sure your outfit is saying the right things. Here are some of our tips.
Do your Research
You're going to want to avoid embarrassing situations like turning up in a two piece suit when the rest of the office is sporting markedly more casual attire so it's generally a good idea to do a bit of research before hand to see how formal or casual the dress code is. Don't shy away from phoning up the HR department to ask about dress code or even visit a café near the offices to get a feel for what the staff are wearing. The idea is to dress like you're already part of the team!
Stay Classic
Keep it professional. While you may think you're being quirky, unique and following the latest fashions, your prospective employer may have a different take on what is fashionable. Therefore, it's best to keep your outfit classic, simple and professional.
Men: If interviewing for a professional post; a two piece suit, a crisp shirt and tie is the go-to outfit for any high level business interview. Avoid the temptation to go digging for that novelty tie, keep it classic - either a plain block coloured tie or one with a subtle pattern. Red or Blue is always a good choice as both are ‘power colours'.
For less formal interviews, such as start-up interviews or Retail Store interviews, a suit doesn't always fit the context. In these situations, a pair of smart trousers or chinos, a shirt and jacket or blazer is a good choice.
Check out our Pinterest Board for some inspiration:
Women : You have a little more choice here than your male counterparts but you should stay equally professional. Whether you opt for a tailored suit, a pencil skirt and a blouse or a dress keep the cut modest and professional and the colours conservative – making sure you're relying on your professional assets to get you the job. For less formal interviews you have even more choice, but that isn't an invitation to throw caution to the wind and wear your favourite night club outfit. Speaking of Nightclubs, your favourite platform heels aren't best suited to the working environment so make sure you have a conservative pair of heels, maximum 10cm high. You never know how much walking you'll be doing at an interview so err on the side of caution.
Check out our Pinterest Board for some inspiration:
Perfume / Cologne
Personal hygiene is of paramount importance and nothing is more off putting than pungent body odour, but in the same vein, you need to be careful not to go overboard with the perfume or cologne. It may well be your favourite fragrance, but it may also have been that of your interviewer's ex-partner or spouse. Err on the side of caution and opt for little if any perfume or cologne.Accessories & Hair Style
Keep outfit adornments to a minimum. Too many bracelets or necklaces can be distracting and big earrings look unprofessional so swap them for some conservative studs. Both men and women should keep hairstyles neat and professional. While you may sport a Mohawk or a bright blue quaff among friends, the workplace demands a more subdued hairstyle. Keep the colour natural and the style neat and avoid having hair cover your face – it gives the impression you lack self confidence.
Whatever it is you decide to wear you have to be sure you feel comfortable. An interview is stressful enough and so you don't want your clothes causing you problems or stress. Forexample an ill fitting shirt may make you feel self conscious and so you insistently readjust yourself or perhaps the trousers you've chosen are just a little too big and you're forever pulling them up. While these situations add unwanted stress, you also appear fidgety and unfocused on the interview and therefore perhaps disinterested.
Ofcourse dressing the part alone isn't going to get you the job! While you may be forgiven for a wardrobe mishap, a negative attitude or lack of knowledge about the company is more likely to cost you the job. When dressing for your interview keep in mind our tips and use your common sense. For your attitude, rely on your motivation to get the job to make the difference.
Good Luck!
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