I will wager a bet that a job-applicant can go through hundreds of blogs offering advice, talk to recruiters, fellow workers who have already been through this, but when he has the last look at himself in the bathroom mirror, just minutes prior to the interview, he will be insecure and self-doubting that he’s dressed appropriately.
Here then are the answers to the often asked questions:
- Today’s business is not all traditional? Don’t you think a suit would be misplaced?
Just a few years ago, it was accepted practice that the customary interview clothes were suit and tie for men and a suit with a skirt for women. But these days workplaces are relaxing their dress codes, which has increased dress-options beyond the accepted standards. However, it will be appropriate if you enquire with your potential employers what they would like to see you wear. If answers are not forthcoming, it would be advisable to stick to the traditional uniforms.
- Is traditional dressing going out?
No, by a wide margin no. Traditional dressing has outlasted many trends in fashion that were a rage when they were in vogue. Does anybody wear bellbottoms these days? Was anybody without bellbottoms in the early 70’s? Traditional dressing is still the safest way to make a good first expression. However, with the relaxation from casual businesses, the options have increased a little more.
- How do I decide what my company would like to see me in?
Don’t forget, each company has an aura of its own. A visit to the company will reveal exactly what it expects of its employees. Attempt to discover what the standard is for the company prior to the interview. You can call their human resources department and ask what the company's dress code is. A policy that never fails is to go and stand outside the company during lunchtime or packing up time and observe the workers as they come out of the company. It’s a great practical lesson in the dress culture of the company.
- I decide that a suit is not required. Then what’s the next best outfit?
Presuming that you have actually visited the company clandestinely or officially and observed what the employees wear wearing. Just wear something that is better than what they are wearing. Stand out from the rest. More important than what to wear, is what not to wear. Never wear jeans and a T-shirt. T-Shirts with slogans convey a cold, indifferent look. If not a suit, wear a jacket at least. Both men and women can wear it. A jacket pulls the outfit together and can also conceal figures that are not too flattering.
But there are some professions where the suit is what you should be wearing, irrespective of what others say. Lawyer firms, banks, sales people, these professions prefer the suited look. Whatever you eventually decide to wear, make sure it fits correctly and is of the best quality you can afford. Spending money on appropriate clothes may seem like an additional expense now, but will appear to have been a sensible investment when you get the job.
- Is it appropriate for women to wear pants to the interview?
Conventional advisors will still say that women should always wear a skirt. But the rules are changing. World famous women, whose sartorial choices have influenced the world, have made fashion statements that have now become accepted practice. Hilary Clinton, with her trademark pantsuit, has made it a much loved and worn uniform that is widely accepted as appropriate formal wear.
Whatever, the new changes in dressing culture; it is always in your best interests to play safe. Dressing up conservatively is an insurance that you are going to create a picture of self-worth and seriousness. It will, without doubt create a good first-impression with your interviewer. Casuals may be allowed, but why take the risk?
