What to Wear...What to Wear

What should you wear to a job interview? Millions of people agonize over what to wear while looking for a job. For those of you who need a quick review of the basics, follow these guidelines for successful interview dress:

Men and Women

• Conservative two-piece business suit (solid dark blue or grey is best)

• Conservative long-sleeved shirt/blouse (white is best, pastel is next best)

• Clean, polished conservative shoes

• Well-groomed hairstyle

• Clean, trimmed fingernails

• Minimal cologne or perfume

• Empty pockets—no bulges or tinkling coins

• No gum, candy, or cigarettes

• Light briefcase or portfolio case

• No visible body piercing (nose rings, eyebrow rings, etc.) or tatoos

Men

• Necktie should be silk with a conservative pattern

• Dark shoes (black lace-ups are best)

• Dark socks (black is best)

• Get a haircut; short hair always fares best in interviews

• Fresh shave; mustaches are a possible negative, but if you must, make sure it is neat and trimmed

• No beards (unless you are interviewing for a job as a lumberjack!)

• No rings other than wedding ring or college ring

• No earrings (if you normally wear one, take it out)

Women

• Wear a suit with a jacket and skirt or slacks; no dresses

• Shoes with conservative heels

• Conservative hosiery at or near skin color (and no runs!)

• No purses, small or large; carry a briefcase instead

• If you wear nail polish, use clear or a conservative color

• Keep your makeup simple and natural (it should not be too noticeable)

• No more than one ring on each hand

• One set of earrings only