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Diane Gottsman | Leading Etiquette Expert | Modern Manners Authority

Leading Etiquette Expert and Modern Manners Authority Diane Gottsman’s official blog, with Business Etiquette, University Etiquette, Social Media Etiquette, Dining Etiquette and more.

What to Wear to a Job Interview: Women’s Etiquette Attire Quiz

06 Jan 2012 By: Diane Gottsman

Whether the New Year has brought you new career opportunities (Congratulations!), or you are just interested in polishing your professional presence, keep in mind that your image makes a strong statement about your executive image. Take my job interview attire quiz and see if you really know what to wear to a job interview :

1. True or False: A two-piece matched suit (with pants or skirt) is more “off-putting” than a fun, floral dress.

False – A two-piece suit is always the best option when interviewing for your dream job. A fun, floral dress is fine for a ladies luncheon but not the best first impression when attempting to land a job.

2. The best option for nails during a job interview is:
a. A neutral nude shade
b. A French manicure with subtle gold tips
c. A bold deep burgundy

A neutral shade of nail color is always a safe choice. Nails should be neatly manicured, trimmed and polished for a professional look.

3. True or False: Covering tattoos during a job interview is a must.

True – Unless you are applying for a job at a tattoo parlor. While some employers may sport a tattoo of their own, it’s always best to err on the side of caution.

4.True or False: Capri pants are perfectly fine with a conservative sweater set.

False – Capri pants are considered too casual for the office unless you are already hired and you work in an environment that is “capri” friendly. A sweater set is a Friday casual option.

5. The best choice for interview footwear is as follows:
a. Pumps with a moderate heal in a single hue
b. My favorite Dolce sky-high heel in a leopard print.  After all, a girl’s got style!
c. Bronze colored sandals with a small heel and a tasteful accent buckle

A– There are some staple items that must be in every girl’s wardrobe and a moderately heeled stylish pump is the way to go for a job interview.  Okay, I admit, I love heels but you are not walking the red carpet – unless the office carpet is red.

6. True or False: Always color-coordinate your purse, briefcase, business card holder, belt and leather portfolio.

 False – First of all, only carry a briefcase or portfolio, not a purse, and definitely not all three at once—you don’t want to look like you are selling leather goods as you walk through the door. Your business card holder does not have to match but should look professional rather than social. Your belt should compliment with you entire outfit.

7. True or False: The waft of your signature scent as you exit the interview will leave a lasting impression.

 True – But not a good one! Go light on the scent and heavy on the skills.

8. True or False: A ponytail is acceptable for a job interview.

True/False – If the ponytail is the same one you wear to the gym – False. If you are wearing a chic ponytail with conservative style – True.

9. True or False: There’s no harm in wearing a thin trendy hair feather that compliments the natural color of your hair.

 True – If you are applying for a lifeguard position. False if you are applying for a job with me (or most other executive positions).

10. True or False:  Wearing a bold piece of jewelry such as your grandmother’s charm bracelet or multiple bangles will be a great conversation starter.

False – While a few pieces of conservative accents are fine, noisy jewelry is distracting and diverts the attention of the interviewer.

Remember to take my interview attire tips with you as you set out towards advancement in 2012!

Yours in Fashion,

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Diane Gottsman

Diane Gottsman is a national etiquette expert and modern manners professional, sought out industry leader, television personality, accomplished speaker, Huffington Post blogger, author, and the owner of The Protocol School of Texas, a company specializing in executive leadership and etiquette training. Diane is routinely quoted in national and international media including The New York Times, The BBC, CNN, Bloomberg Business Week, Kiplinger, Huffington Post Canada, U.S. News and World Report, and Forbes. She is the resident etiquette expert for two popular morning talk shows, SA Living and Good Day Austin. She has been seen on The TODAY Show, HLN Headline News, WGN Chicago, and CBS Sunday Morning. Her clients range from university students to Fortune 500 companies and her workshops cover topics ranging from tattoos in the workplace to technology at the dinner table and the proper use of social media.

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Diane Gottsman is a national etiquette expert, sought after industry leader, and owner of The Protocol School of Texas,
a company specializing in executive leadership and business etiquette training.

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