Did you know that the first few minutes of your interview are very important because hiring decision can take place within? This means that appropriately dressing is very important! So, you need to know how to dress for success like professional clothing. Different types of clothing are available i.e. Business Professional, Business Casual and Smart Casual.
We would rather be hired because of our skills and abilities; No one enjoys being judged for employment based on looks. But like it or not, appearance does matter in the interview and on the job.
Your appearance shows to potential employers about your judgment, motivation, professionalism, and “fit” within the organization. For an interview, you want to communicate respect, so you should dress a little more conservatively and formally than employees typically dress at that organization.
You can check the company website or it’s perfectly appropriate to ask the person scheduling your interview for information on the company dress code. Rule of thumb: When in doubt, ask!
Guidelines: General Dress for Success
There are three main categories of dressing for success: Business Professional, Business Casual, and Smart Casual. While there are no absolute rules regarding attire, here are some guidelines.
- The primary goal of dressing for your interview is to feel good and look professional. If you feel uncomfortable in an outfit – even if it fits and people say you look great – don’t wear it
- Quality, cut, and fit communicate a lot; avoid wearing a suit that is clearly too big or too small. Professional alterations can be a good investment
- Regardless of whether you are dressing in Business Professional, Business Casual, or Smart Casual wear for work, you should avoid dirty/wrinkled clothes, scuffed shoes, chipped nails, athletic clothing, sneakers, hiking boots, flip-flops, athletic sandals, and any shorts, skirts, or tops that are too short or tight for the office
Attire Means “Business Professional”
- Two-piece suit and tie; solid, neutral colors are best
- Skirt length should be to the knee—or close to it, depending on what length works for you
- Solid color or subtle patterned blouse/top/dress shirt
- Minimal jewelry
- Dark shoes with dark socks. If you are unsure which shoe or sock colors “go” with your suit, or what color belt you should pair with your suit/shoes, ask the Career Services Center staff for advice
- Closed-toe shoes (1 or 2 inches heel height) are appropriate but should be comfortable to stand and walk in; flats or wedges are okay as well
- Subtle makeup
- Trimmed facial hair
- Avoid colognes, perfumes, body sprays
- Carry a portfolio, professional bag or simple, small purse (no backpacks)
Attire Means “Business Casual”
- Wearing a tie is optional
- Sport coats/blazers are appropriate, but not required
- Shirts should be collared (polo or button-down)
- Dress pant options include slacks, khakis, chinos (No leggings!)
- Dresses or skirt/blouse combinations are appropriate (sundresses are not appropriate)
- Shorts are not considered appropriate for interviews
- Good casual shoes, like loafers, flats, wedges, or low heels (sandals may be appropriate considering the climate – but no flip-flops!) or fashion sneakers.
- Subtle makeup
- Avoid colognes, perfumes, body sprays
Attire Means “Smart Casual”
Anything listed as Business Casual, and:
- Jeans—avoid rips or holes; darker washes are generally considered more professional
- Clean, plain T-shirts
- Sandals may be appropriate, but not athletic sneakers or flip-flops!
- Avoid athleisure wear, spaghetti straps or camisoles, or any top that reveals too much bare skin
Read more articles
