Tips on Dressing for a Job Interview

Tips on Dressing for a Job Interview - Your interview attire is more important than you think so let your talent and personality get you noticed, not your wild tie or brightly colored socks. The right clothes give you an opportunity to make the right impression. I have outlined 4 important tips on dressing for a job interview.

On the day of our interview, before you even begin to get dressed, there is one thing you should avoid. You may be tempted to follow your normal routine of splashing your favorite cologne or aftershave on after you hop out of the shower. Don’t do it for your interview, you don’t want to overwhelm the interviewer. They may not like your fragrance as much as you do.

What to Wear. . .
To a more formal interview: It helps to know how formal the company you will be interviewing with is and if wearing a suit is necessary. I hate to state the obvious, but it is important to go in a suit and tie to any company that's part of a more formal industry, such as banking, law or brokerage. Choose a basic black, dark gray or navy suit. Also opt for black leather lace-up shoes and a black belt. Blue shirts are a great choice since they compliment most skin tones and easily coordinate with most suit colors. Choose a flattering tie that goes well with both the suit and shirt you have chosen.To a less formal interview: Some less formal industries such as software development and technology companies will not require a suit. However, it's better to wear something a little nicer than what everyone in the office is wearing. So choose something dressy but casual. Such ensembles might include pressed khakis or trousers, a well pressed button-down shirt, and of course some sort of nice looking dress shoe and matching belt. You may even want to thrown on a blazer. Navy blazers look great with khaki pants.

Pay attention to details such as matching your belt to the color of your shoes. Choose black shoes if your outfit consists of dark gray, navy, brown or black. Opt for dark brown shoes if you'll be wearing tans or medium toned colors. I hate to sound like your mother, but polish or clean your shoes before your interview. Scuff marks on your shoes make you look tattered, and we can't have that.Keep interview accessories minimal and professional. Use some sort of bound portfolio to carry your resume, references or other papers. Men should limit jewelry to a wristwatch and cufflinks if you wear them. Earrings, necklaces, nose rings, and such are not interview material (for the man who wants the job anyway). Whatever the type of industry, men should wear jewelry sparingly.