Making a positive first impression is essential in a job interview. An employer’s opinion of you is not only based on your skills, but also on how you present yourself. By dressing professionally you can show employers that you mean business.
Appropriate Attire
- A business suit (yes, you need the jacket!) in a conservative color such as navy blue, gray or black
- A white, pressed shirt with an undershirt makes the best impression
- A tie with a simple pattern
- Shined shoes and matching leather belt
- Socks that cover your leg and are at least as dark as your pants
- Bring a portfolio or briefcase with a notepad and pen
- For women:
- A business suit in a conservative color such as navy blue, gray or black
- A white or light-colored shell or blouse (no tank-tops)
- Polished closed-toed shoes and skin-toned stockings
- Bring a portfolio or briefcase with a notepad and pen; avoid bringing your purse
Inappropriate attire
- Wrinkled, dirty or ill-fitting clothing (too tight or too loose)
- Revealing clothes (plunging necklines, exposed midriffs, and skirts above the knee when sitting)
- Open-toed shoes or sandals
- Visible tattoos or piercings
Grooming
- For men:
- Clean shaven (you can grow the goatee back after you get the job)
- Neat, recently-trimmed hair
- One ring on your ring finger and a watch only (no earrings, necklaces, bracelets, etc.)
- Avoid strong scented aftershave and keep cologne to a minimum
- No piercings, period
- Trimmed, clean fingernails
- Brushed teeth
- For women:
- Wear natural-looking makeup that includes lipstick (avoid the bright colors)
- Hair should be neatly styled above the shoulders, with long hair pulled up in a bun or French twist
- Keep jewelry to a minimum, such as one ring per hand, one earring per ear, and either a broche or a necklace
- Avoid strong perfumes or scented lotions
- Visible piercings should only be one earring in each ear
- Filed, clean fingernails (avoid bright colors if polished)
- Brushed teeth (check for lipstick!)
