Is Your Wardrobe Prepared for the Interview?

Nancy Anderson
Posted by in Career Advice


Making sure you wear the right clothes to a job interview may seem superficial, but it's also essential. The wrong clothes can make you look unprofessional and seriously damage your chances of getting the job. If your job search is in a slump, consider investing in some new garbs to boost your confidence and improve your performance during the interview. Here are some key staples for your wardrobe.

1. Neutral Blazers

Whether you're male or female, a high-quality blazer in a neutral color can instantly give you a more professional appearance. Hiring managers prefer black and navy blue, so avoid purchasing blazers in bold, colorful shades that aren't suitable for a formal workplace. A neutral blazer is a suitable choice of clothing for almost any job interview, so it's a great addition to your wardrobe. Blazers can be expensive, but you can shop the sales racks to find last season's pieces at affordable prices.

2. Comfortable Shoes

High heels may look impressive, but the risk of making a fool of yourself by tripping or stumbling is high. Wear comfortable shoes to your job interview so you can concentrate on your responses to the interviewer rather than the discomfort in your feet. Choose professional, sturdy flats in a neutral color so you can wear them with any interview outfit.

3. A Good Suit

If you're male and applying for a professional job, a good suit is essential interview wear. A mismatched jacket and pants look unprofessional and can give the interviewer a bad first impression of you. Once again, neutral colors and styles are best. Most importantly, make sure the suit fits you properly, even if this means spending extra for professional tailoring.

4. A Professional Bag

Don't be that job seeker who creates the perfect interview outfit but has to show up to his job interview with a scruffy backpack because it's the only bag he owns. Invest in a leather satchel or handbag to complete your professional attire.

5. A Splash of Color

As long as the main aspects of your outfit are neutral and professional, there is nothing wrong with adding a splash of color to brighten up your image and help interviewers remember you. Women can wear a patterned blouse under a neutral blazer, while men can go with a brightly colored tie. However, it's important not to go overboard. Leave the novelty ties at home in favor of a solid color or an abstract pattern.

Wearing the right clothes to a job interview can help you feel more confident, and when they fit you well, can also create a great first impression on an interviewer. That's why it's crucial to invest in some key pieces to ensure you have plenty of options.


Photo courtesy of stockimages at FreeDigitalPhotos.Net

 

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  • Nancy Anderson
    Nancy Anderson

    @Brian thanks for your comment. The article was in no way meant to be demeaning or misleading. The truth of the matter is that an interviewer will take note of your appearance and will use that as ONE factor in determining your suitability for a position. Truly understand that it can be tough to dress the part when your bank account says something different. Possibly you could try @Goodwill again - for a more up to date jacket. If not, then a nice clean and pressed shirt and slacks - and maybe a tie - would suffice. Don't let your wardrobe (or lack of) stand in your way of applying to positions and setting up interviews. As for the leather satchel - it's a luxury for sure. A nice clean file folder would suffice. Just make sure that you have a few copies of your resume as well as the job posting and a list of references. Also, nice to carry with you is a list of all companies you worked at along with the dates, addresses and your supervisor's name and phone number if you have it or can get it. The best wardrobe item you can have is a smile. Best of luck on your next interview.

  • Brian G.
    Brian G.

    The suggested materialism put forth in this article is both demeaning and misleading. There are many people who have been out of work so long that the financial resources to acquire a "still in fashion" suit jacket or blazer is lacking.

    Speaking from firsthand experience, the blazer I purchased from Goodwill as a young job seeker for job interviews fit well but unbeknownst to me, was also ten years out of fashion. Fortunately, before I wore it out in public, a friend told I looked more like "Slick Eddy" trying to sell used cars than I did professional.

    I further disagree with the "leather satchel" aspect. With the current fitness consciousness among society, there is nothing "unprofessional" about a clean quality backpack. Secondly, I've run across hiring managers who find the wearing of real animal skin to be offensive. Once there's a reason to not like an applicant, it is easy to find other "more legitimate" reasons to not extend an offer of employment.

    Such are the shallow and dehumanizing effects of competing for jobs when the deciding factors include factors beyond skills and abilities; such as being one of the "pretty people," as well as ageism, sexism, and cultural racism.

  • Nancy Anderson
    Nancy Anderson

    @Scott thanks for your comment. More than likely a hiring decision is not made based upon the way that you are dressed but it certainly is a factor. Coming to an interview in proper attire shows that you really care; that you really want the position. @Christian, in my experience, the one who thinks that dressing sexy will get the job is the one who is still on the unemployment line. But, if dressing that ways gets her the job, maybe it's not a company that would be of interest to you. Dress professionally. Be prepared. Come with a positive attitude, a smile and a firm handshake and you just might walk out with an offer in your pocket or at least with the chance for a second interview.

  • Christian S.
    Christian S.

    Yes that's the word today! I totally agree with you and how much more if its 1sexy girl who know what to show even its not her professional skills. That's life

  • Scott F.
    Scott F.

    It's amazing how many important hiring decisions are made based on superficial and non-performance-based criteria like the form of cloth you drape on your body.

  • Nancy Anderson
    Nancy Anderson

    Thanks @James. It's funny how many people actually forget that step. They spend so much time thinking about their suit, shirt/blouse, tie, etc that they forget to look down. Another thing, for the guys, do not wear white socks with your suit! Can't tell you how many times I have seen that! Color coordination, spit and polish and a great smile. That is what is needed for an interview!

  • James Sullivan
    James Sullivan

    Shined shoes is a plus as well
    Jim Sullivan
    Project Director-Optic Nerve Direct San Francisco, ca

  • donnmaria t.
    donnmaria t.

    Good advice

  • Sharon  Robinson
    Sharon Robinson

    Most definitely

  • Joshy. P.
    Joshy. P.

    yes

  • Janet H.
    Janet H.

    Yes, It is"

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