You don’t get a second chance to make a good first impression! Dressing appropriately for your interview is crucial, your attire will have a major impact on how you are perceived by the interviewer. What you wear will be a reflection of your professionalism, commitment and your ability to fit in with the corporate culture. Knowing what to wear to a job interview is an age-old conundrum. Fashions come and fashions go, but style remains. For both formal and informal interviews, there are a few hard and fast rules. There’s no room for experimentation in your interview wardrobe, so here’s a guide to make sure you choose the winning outfit for the job you’re applying for.
The substance of your interview is key. Your patter, affability and subject knowledge are essential, but arguably your attire will also play a vital role in dictating the final outcome. First impressions are, by definition, instant and it takes seconds for a complete stranger to formulate a positive or negative opinion of you based on your appearance alone. Interestingly enough, if you get the image right, it is likely to be noticed but not necessarily remarked upon. However, if you get it wrong, then it can be difficult or even impossible to overcome the employer’s negative preconceptions about you. You should always aim to dress above what you would normally consider suitable for the role you are applying for. Conducting background research into the company on social media or on their website could give you an indication of the normal expectations.
The Formal
The strictest dress code, so when required it’s important to make sure you’re not sporting any casual elements:
Men
Always dress in a professionally appropriate manner. This doesn’t mean you have to hire a three-piece suit, but it does mean dressing one notch above the norm. Think smart, sharp and stylish.
Wear something comfortable. If you’re comfortable then you’ll also be confident and this is key for all interviewees.
Make sure your clothes fit. Choose something familiar that you know looks good, you don’t want to look like you’ve borrowed your dad’s suit jacket or as if it’s your first day at school.
Similarly, now is not the time to experiment with something new. Avoid picking a brand new outfit which may not fit right. Don’t be afraid to reach for a classic favourite, remember that your interviewer hasn’t seen that suit jacket before, even if all your friends have.
Choose a dark suit colour. Whether it’s black, grey or navy, pick a trouser/jacket combination that’s a dark, neutral shade. Accent colours (such as a coloured tie or pocket square) are fine but avoid anything lurid or distracting.
Always do your laundry. Whatever you wear it needs to clean and ironed, otherwise you’re at risk of looking lazy and careless. Avoid linen suits too as they tend to crease like crazy.
Check for rips or holes. Loose buttons, fallen trouser hems and ripped sleeves scream unprofessional and unprepared. Not a good look.
Don’t wear a comedy tie. If you’ve chosen to wear a suit, shirt and tie combination then pick a tie that matches your colour scheme. If your interview is in a more casual setting then a tie isn’t always needed.
Similarly, don’t wear comedy socks. Details such as these stick in people’s minds and you’ll always be tarnished with the ‘chap who had Mario socks’ label rather than the ‘guy who had an awesome CV’ label.
Wear good quality, polished shoes. Pick a nice leather pair in black or brown and give them a fresh coat of shoe polish. They say you can tell a lot about a person by the state of their shoes so avoid trainers and flip flops at all costs.
Women
Always dress in a professionally appropriate manner. This doesn’t mean you need to wear a power suit but it does mean dressing one notch above the norm.
Wear something comfortable. If you’re comfortable then you’ll also be confident and this is key for all interviewees.
Make sure your clothes fit. Choose something familiar that you know looks good: you don’t want to look like it’s your first day at school or be fidgeting around in your seat.
Similarly, now is not the time to experiment with something new. Avoid picking a brand new outfit which may not fit right or that you learn is accidentally see-through. And don’t be afraid to reach for a classic favourite either, remember that your interviewer hasn’t seen that dress before, even if all your friends have.
Don’t show too much skin. Avoid skirts that are too short and tops that are cut too low as this can quickly give people the wrong impression. Skirts should generally be no more than 3 inches above the knee.
Always do your laundry. Whatever you wear it needs to clean and ironed, otherwise you’re at risk of looking lazy and careless. Avoid linen skirts, dresses and trousers too as they tend to crease.
Check for rips or holes. Loose buttons, fallen hems and ripped sleeves scream unprofessional and under prepared.
Choose dark colours over bright ones. Whether it’s black, grey or navy, pick an outfit combination that’s a dark, neutral shade if possible. Accent colours, such as a patterned blouse or coloured handbag, are fine but avoid anything lurid or distracting.
Wear good quality, polished shoes. Pick a nice leather or patent pair in a colour that matches your outfit and give them a good polish. Avoid heels that are too high or shoes that are too brightly coloured, especially if they look like something you would wear on a night out.
Keep your jewellery and hair accessories to a minimum. Massive necklaces, sparkly earrings and large bracelets can be both overwhelming and distracting. Instead, pick one statement necklace or brooch, not the whole works.
The Business Casual
The most common type of interview attire:
Suit jacket (optional) and trousers or skirt – usually in dark or muted colours such as black, navy blue or grey.
Shirt or smart top – typically plain and either white, or pastel colours are most suitable.
Cardigan or jumper (round or V neck) – it’s best if these are plain, but can be light or dark coloured.
Smart shoes – usually darker in colour and polished.
Jewellery is appropriate, though kept to a minimum.
The Casual
This is more laid back and typically includes:
Polo shirt or t-shirt – usually best if plain.
Smart/casual trousers – but dark coloured jeans are typically acceptable.
Plain jacket or jumper.
Casual shoes – in good condition.
Remember
If you can’t get the information upfront, you can always revert to the golden rule: Go formal. Be prepared for everything whilst we don’t recommend carting your whole life around in your handbag, man-bag or briefcase, it’s generally a good idea to be equipped with your reading glasses, a notebook and pen, a tissue and a spare copy of your CV so that you’re ready for any unforeseen scenarios. It’ll also make you look super organised and professional. Check the weather before you leave, taking a brolly could save the day! Make sure you follow Mayday’s #TuesdayTips on Facebook. Lastly, make sure you relax and if it doesn’t quite go to plan, you can always have a look at our latest jobs.
