Interview Etiquette: What to Wear for an Interview

Are you graduating from college soon and unsure of what to wear to your first job interview? Make sure you stand out in the crowd of hopefuls by following the guidelines below. These tips are sure to give you an edge during this new and exciting step in your life!

WOMEN SUITING UP FOR SUCCESS – WHAT TO WEAR FOR AN INTERVIEW

Basic Wardrobe 

• A dark, two-piece skirt suit, in gray, navy or black is your best option when interviewing with a conservative company.  Compliment it with a light colored blouse or underpinning.  Avoid fashion choices that appear too trendy, flashy or sporty.  Your selection of attire will be viewed as a confident choice and you will appear serious about getting the job.
• Another option is a dark colored pantsuit, with matching jacket and pants.  When in doubt, ask the recruiter for suggestions or advice.
• For a more casual industry, tailored slacks and a blouse or a skirt and a blouse with a complimentary jacket or sweater is an appropriate option.  If the company or industry is known for its casual work environment, you may choose to tailor down without looking too casual.  The key is to think in terms of “three pieces” and it’s always better to be overdressed than underdressed.
• A white tailored shirt is an executive staple.  Pastel colors are also professional and easy to coordinate with your interview outfit.
• Panty hose may or may not be optional.  While some young women see hosiery as old-fashioned, it is still a smart idea to include this in your interview outfit if you are not sure of the corporate dress policy.  Panty hose have made great strides and are much more comfortable and fashionable than in years past.  Select a sheer or nude and avoid textured, patterned or colored hosiery.
• Choose aclosed-toe, conservative pump.  Regardless of the current shoe trends, a shoe worn during a job interview should be professional and understated.  The exception is when you are applying for a creative position or a position in the fashion industry and your appearance must reflect the current fashion.

Details that Matter

• A small leather purse or leather briefcase (don’t carry both)
• Clean and manicured nails with light polish
• Make up is not optional. Even minimal makeup makes a woman look polished and professional and shows that she values her professional image.
• Hair worn away from the face
• A conservative watch with a link or leather band
• A black or neutral colored umbrella and trench coat

Don’ts

• Short skirt and form fitting garments
• Wet or over-gelled hair
• Strong perfume or heavily scented body products
• Noisy or flashy jewelry
• Visible body piercings and tattoos (Cover tattoos with a band aid or flesh colored tape)
• Scuffed heels and unpolished shoes
• Jeans, t-shirts, and sneakers
• Book bag rather than briefcase

MEN SUITING UP FOR SUCCESS – WHAT TO WEAR FOR AN INTERVIEW

Basic Wardrobe 

• A dark, two-piece suit, in gray, navy or black is your best option when interviewing with a conservative company.  Warning: a stark black suit is not flattering on all men and skin types.
• A more relaxed alternative to the classic suit would be a sport coat and trouser and may be appropriate for certain types of jobs.  When deciding what to wear, the rule of thumb is to be overdressed rather than underdressed. Do some research before the interview to feel most comfortable with your decision.
• A crisp white cotton shirt is the best compliment to a suit and tie and makes the most confident, powerful statement.
• A conservative tie
• A leather belt with a conservative buckle 
• A black or cordovan shoe
• Dark socks that match the slacks

 Details that Matter

• Leather briefcase or portfolio
• Well groomed, clean shaven face and fingernails
• Cleaned and polished shoes (Pay special attention to the heels and soles)
• Conservative watch with a link or leather band
• A black or neutral color umbrella and trench coat

 Don’ts

• Wet or over-gelled hair
• Strong cologne
• Excessive jewelry (Multiple rings on the same hand or a large necklace)
• Visible body piercings and tattoos (Cover tattoos with a band aid or flesh colored tape)
• Dock shoes or similar casual shoes
• Facial hair
• A rubber sports watch
• Bow tie and suspenders
• Jeans, t-shirts, or sneakers
• Book bag rather than briefcase

Good luck on your job interview!