When dressing for an interview, always professionally dress your best! The first impression made is the most important. It can take only a few seconds for a person to draw conclusions about you by what you are wearing. Since there are many different job fields, dressing for each field could be different. If you are not sure what to wear, play it safe and dress conservatively. You will not look silly, but smart and eager to learn.
Business Attire: Men
- Suit: Solid color suits, such as black, brown, navy, and grey are easy choices. Avoid extreme color shades and prints. A subtle plaid or weave pattern can also be acceptable, as long as it looks solid across a room.
- Shirt: Long sleeve solid or striped shirt, as long as it matches the suit.
- Belt: Black or brown leather belt, whichever matches your shoes.
- Tie: A nice silk tie that matches with your suit and shirt. No extreme patterns.
- Socks: Dark colored socks so you do not draw attention. Mid-calf length so no skin is shown when you sit.
- Shoes: Nice dress shoes.
- Jewelry: A nice watch is acceptable.
- Hair: Clean and neat. Facial hair must be well-groomed, but in some industries, it is unacceptable.
- Cologne: Do not go overboard. A light smell is best.
- Nails: Clean and trimmed.
- Portfolio or briefcase.
Business Attire: Women
- Suit/Dress: Solid two-piece matched suit. Pant or skirt suit in white, or a neutral or dark shade is acceptable. Skirt length should be knee length when standing or at least fingertip-length. No high slits in the skirt. A dress can also be acceptable if it is office-appropriate.
- Shirt: Solid or light pattern tailored-blouse that coordinates with the suit.
- Pantyhose: Neutral shades only, with no pattern detail. Should complement your suit/dress.
- Shoes: Conservative, closed-toed shoes. No extreme colors or patterns. Simple design; no sky high heels or chunky shoes. You must be able to comfortably and gracefully walk in them.
- Jewelry: Less is best. No chunky or extreme amount of jewelry. Simple stud earrings, such as pearls or diamonds and a matching necklace and/or bracelet are best. The jewelry does not have to be real; it just needs to look nice. Also, no bright colored jewelry.
- Hair: Nice, clean hair style. Blow dry, pinned in a bun, ponytail, or natural. Just make sure it is subtle.
- Perfume: Light scent.
- Make-up: Natural or light make-up is best.
- Nails: Clean and trimmed nails. If you want to paint your nails, use a subtle color that doesn’t conflict with your outfit. No bright colors.
- Portfolio or briefcase: You can carry a small purse also with your briefcase. Make sure your purse matches your shoes and does not draw attention.
Things To Do The Night Before:
- Iron your outfit so you are not rushed on the day of your interview.
- Pack your briefcase or prepare your portfolio.
- Plan out how you will be doing your hair and make-up (if any).
- Get a good night's rest.
Things To Do The Morning Of:
- Eat a well-balanced breakfast.
- Drink plenty of water (To ensure a clear speaking voice during the interview).
- Look over any material that you think is necessary.
- Leave a half an hour early to allow time for traffic.