There is one opportunity to make a great first impression at a job interview. Having the right clothes and attitude are crucial to landing your dream position. Discover what to wear for your first job interview and how to dress for future success.
Dress Like the Employer
The first step is determining what the employer wears to work to ensure your job interview outfit is appropriate. For example, the best mens navy dress shirt with a suit jacket is ideal for a corporate job interview, but it might not be suitable if interviewing for a camp counselor position. From casual startup businesses to Fortune 500 corporations, each place has a different dress code to follow for job interviews and workdays.
Business Attire Required
Most job interviews require business attire, such as a button-up shirt, suit jacket, dress pants, or a statement dress. The key is to look professional and polished to make a stellar impression on the job interviewer. Always ensure your outfit is clean, pressed, and smells fresh without any telltale stains or tears.
Consider the Climate and Season
Another important consideration is dressing professionally for the climate and season to ensure you are comfortable during the interview. Also, those who travel for job interviews should research the current temperature and conditions to dress appropriately for the area. After all, you don’t want to wear a heavy coat to a job interview in a warm, sunny location!
Inspect the Clothes
Often we wear clothing with flaws and never notice it because we are accustomed to our environment. For example, people with pets often have hair on their clothing or small stains from interacting with their furry friends. Inspect your outfit to remove pet hair and other imperfections for a smooth and clean appearance.
Accessories Matter
Choosing the right accessories is also important to pull together an impressive job interview outfit. Avoid heavy pieces or colorful ones that make a major impact. Instead, opt for classic accessories that complement your overall look without distracting from it.
Remember the Hair
Besides choosing an impressive job interview outfit, always remember to style your hair. A professional outfit with messy hair instantly makes the interviewer wonder if you pay attention to the details. Show your ability to focus on details by wearing a classic hairstyle to complement your job interview ensemble.
Minimal Makeup
Sometimes women put on makeup to feel confident and may overdo it for job interviews. Minimal makeup without sparkles or obviously long lashes makes the best first impression on job interviews. Save the dramatic makeup strategies for a night on the town to celebrate your new job.
Remember the Shoes
No outfit is complete without the proper shoes, including your job interview selection. The shoes you choose depend on the outfit, but they should always be clean and polished. Also, if the shoes have laces, they should be securely tied without fraying ends. It would be a good idea to check out some boots for the office as well as flats, and a slight heel, so you have a range to choose from if you do get the job.
Prepare the Night Before
Finally, lay out your job interview outfit the night before the big day. Don’t over-think your outfit at this point; put everything together to be ready in the morning. When you are well-prepared, you instantly feel more confident.
The right outfit makes you feel ready for success at your job interview. Always research the company dress code and choose an outfit accordingly for the best possible experience.