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LOOKING the PART:
Dressing Appropriately
One of the most difficult mistakes to overcome during an interview is being dressed inappropriately. For this reason, it is best to always aim to maximize your professional appearance for interviews and other job search meetings and events.
Some students believe that actions speak louder than appearances, which we would like to believe is true. Unfortunately, professional appearance is the first step in making a favorable first impression, and candidates cannot rely on skills alone to get hired.
One of the biggest mistakes college students make when it comes to dressing for interviews is trying to make too unique a statement. Ironically, the best way to impress an employer physically is to aim to fit in, not to stand out. This means the simpler the better!
What employers are really thinking:
- WIll this person fit in well with our office culture?
- Will this person project a professional image of our company?
- Is this person going to adhere to your professional guidelines?
- Has this person prepared well for the interview by choosing the proper attire?
- Can we trust that this person will apprpriately represent us outside the office?
Common mistakes made by candidates:
- Failing to make a distinction between 'dressy' and 'professional' attire.
- Wearing too much makeup or jewelry.
- Inappropriate hairstyle or facial hair.
- Wearing clothing that is too revealing.
- Dressing too trendy.
- Carrying a bakcpack rather than a briefcase or portfolio
- Dressing too casual.
Don't assume anything...
Many students make the mistake of assuming that a certain company or organization has a relaxed dress code, thus dressing casually for the interview. Recruiters all agree- this is a big blunder.
Just because employees at a company adhere to a casual dress code does not imply that potential hires should ignore interview guidelines. Do not prematurely assume that the rules apply to you as a candidate; wait until you land the job to adapt to the business casual environment.
When in doubt, wear a suit. Most recruiters agree that wearing a suit implies that you have prepared well for the interview and are aware of the importance of a first impression.
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