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Dressing for an Interview

How you dress for an interview has a lot to say about you and how you value yourself. The minute you walk into an interview room you are finalising the impression you already created about yourself when you sent your CV. The first thing that the interviewer will look at will be your clothes and overall attire for the interview. The second will be the form in which you verbally express yourself along with your body language.  Some points to bear in mind are:

General Guide For Ladies:

• Wear solid corporate colours that are conservative. You may consider the possibility of adding a little colour during winter to present a more cheerful appearance.
   
• Wear skirts and trousers that are easy to sit in and that do not show too much of your body.
   
• If you have body art, if possible do not expose it during the interview. (Long sleeves)
   
• Wear more conservative earrings and jewelery.
   
• Avoid excessive hair dyes. The colour of your hair should be suitable for the working environment.
   
• Wear shoes that are conservative and with moderate heels.
   
• Get your personal effects organised, use briefcases or a professional handbag to make a good impression.
   
• Do not use excessive make-up and apply mild, suave colours. Be moderate with eye shadow.
   
• Do not use perfumes that are overpowering, but with tones that are mild and pleasant.
   
• Do not appear “too sexy” for the interview. This tact rarely works for you. Well presented is far more likely to get you the job.
   
• Your nails should be nicely cut and with conservative nail polish if you like to colour your nails.
   
• If you use require glasses ensure you have them with you, to avoid complications during the interview or assesments
   

General Guide For Men:

• Wear solid corporate colours that show confidence and that are suitable for your hair and skin type.
   
• Wear trousers that are the perfect fit. Avoid baggy pants that give the impression you are part of the cast of a bad boy film.
   
• Wear a belt that complements your suit.
   
• Wear socks that complement the colour of your shoes and pants. (Avoid white and cartoon socks)
   
• Your hair should ideally be nicely cut and tidy.
   
• Your nails should be clean and short.
   
• Bring a briefcase or folder to the interview with necessary documents instead of just an envelope.
   
• If possible do not show your tattoos or use earrings in an interview.
   
• Your shirt should be tucked into your trousers.
   
• Some shirts do not require a tie, but if the one you choose to wear does then wear a tie with a solid colour.
   

The above points are to be used as a general guide, the idea is to present yourself in the best light possible. Your chosen profession will of course have an influence on how you approach and dress for an interview but the above are considered as accepted standards.