Dressing for an Interview

Because baggy jeans and tank tops won't work

There is an old saying that “it’s the clothes that make the man.” This is definitely true in what you choose to wear and how you look for your job interview.

It might seem silly to talk about how to dress properly for a job interview, but you would be surprised at how many candidates get it wrong and eliminate themselves from consideration. You only get one chance to make a first impression, so make it count by being properly dressed for your job interview.

Here are some things to remember before showing up for your interview:

When in doubt, dress conservatively – If you are interviewing for a landscaping position working in the dirt and heat, then a suit is probably not necessary. But if you are interviewing for any normal 8-5 corporate job, go with a suit. Even if you show up for your interview and all of the employees are dressed in polo shirts and khakis for Casual Friday, you will make a good impression by being overdressed.

Keep your personal flair at home - Perhaps you normally wear your hair spiked, or have a body piercing that everyone thinks is way cool. Your job interview is not the time to let your interviewer know about all your personal habits. Women should keep the jewelry to a minimum, and guys should leave it at home. Your employer can find out how funky you are once you get the job and they get to know you around the water cooler.

Don’t let your interviewer smell you before they meet you – Males and females alike should keep the perfume and cologne to a minimum. The last thing you want to do is let the person who is going to interview you smell you before they actually shake your hand.

Bring a briefcase or portfolio – Even if you have to fill it with old newspapers, make sure to bring a briefcase or portfolio to your interview. It looks professional and makes you look like you are prepared. Have extra copies of your resume and a pad for jotting down notes immediately after you interview.