What to Wear to a Job Interview?

First impressions always last and when it comes to job interviews, it is essential to give the best first impression. According to Kim Zoller at Image Dynamics, 55% of another person's perception of you is based on how you look. The clothes you wear during the interview can make or break your chance to be hired. Remember that it only takes a few seconds for a stranger to establish a positive or negative opinion of you. Now be sure it is positive.


When it comes to dressing up for a job interview, the best go-to attire is a suit. You will never go wrong with it. Dress up for a business casual attire with less accessories, preferably black or white. These classic colors always give the impression of elegance and simplicity.

For women, you can wear trousers or skirts. The rule with a skirt is that the hemline should be no more than one biro length (about the same size as a ballpoint pen) above the knee. Navy, brown and lighter plain colors are fine especially during summer. Avoid patterns and neon colors. If you are not into plain tops or dresses, you can accessorize your wardrobe with a scarf or jewelry but not too much. Wear heeled shoes but not too high. Flats are okay as long as it does not kill the wardrobe. Avoid slippers and sandals at all costs.

For men, cotton is the safest compared to linen since cotton does not crease easily. You can wear a cotton shirt under a suit. The best colors for business casual attire are black, blue, brown and gray. If you don’t own a suit, go for polo or jacket worn over a cotton shirt. Go for leather or suede shoes. Never wear sneakers or rubber shoes during a job interview. Go for plain colored socks. Don’t think the interviewer won’t notice those socks.

Aside from the wardrobe and the shoes, bags are also important. Go for the plain colored black or brown shoulder or handbag for the ladies and briefcase for the gentlemen. It is not necessary for the bag to be the same color with the shoes as long as it does not ruin the ensemble.

Lastly, wear a smile during the interview. It is your best accessory.



Maria Celeste Abellana
iSTORYA League of Writers


Sources
http://careers.theguardian.com/caree...-dress-impress
http://jobsearch.about.com/od/interv...forsuccess.htm