Men: Tips on Dressing for a Successful Job Interview

 

Have you been on numerous first job interviews, without getting a single call back?  This is very frustrating since you know that you meet the qualifications and are eager, willing and able!  But something is amiss. Something is holding you back. Believe it or not… it just may be your appearance!

 

It is Human Resources’ dirty little secret. Two candidates have the same qualifications and the one who looks the part gets the job. Is this unfair?  Perhaps.  But true?  Yes!

 

Whether we like it or not, we are judged by our appearance. So, what are you silently SHOUTING when you dress for a job interview? Subliminally, it may be the following:

 

ü  Neatly dressed – Organized

ü  Properly accessorized – Pays attention to details

ü  Dressed in a current fashion – In tune with trends and new ideas

ü  Dressed in well fitted, quality clothing – Secure, solvent, and not desperate

ü  Dressed too casually – Not serious

 

Today’s employers are looking for well-rounded candidates who can “multi-task.”   Many jobs require three skill sets for one position. This means that during a single work day, an employee may be stationed at a computer and during the course of the day interface with clients, superiors, and colleagues. Dressing the part has never been as crucial!

 

Appearing well-dressed, with a professional, confident image bodes well with your future employer. It will not only help you land a great job but will give you an edge in negotiating your salary.

 

Tips on Dressing for an Interview:

 

ü  Even if the dress code is casual, wear a suit or sport coat and dress slacks to the interview. You want to show them that you are a serious candidate.

ü  Keep your look professional and conservative. Do not distract the interviewer with a cartoonish or bright tie or excessive jewelry.

ü  Stick with darker, more conservative colors.  Navy and charcoal are good choices with a white or light blue dress shirt and a simple, expensive-looking tie.

ü  Always have two or three different outfits ready for the interview process. You will lose your edge showing up in the same clothing each time.

ü  Make sure all of your clothing fits properly. Nothing should be too loose, puckering or pulling.

ü  Have your outfit cleaned, stain-free, and properly pressed.

ü  Check for loose threads, missing buttons, and unraveling hems.

ü  Your pants should be long enough to touch the heel of your shoe and when you sit, there should be no bare ankles and calves showing.

ü  Make sure your shoes are in good condition and polished.

ü  Your face should be clean-shaven or, if you wear a beard or mustache, it should be neatly trimmed.

ü  Do not overdo the cologne or aftershave. It is best not to wear these products on an interview.

ü  Your hair and nails must be well-groomed. Your appearance should be neat and professional.

ü  Keep jewelry to a minimum. Save the bling for the weekend. Also, unless you are in the entertainment business, remove earrings and other visible body piercing accessories.

ü  Carry a good quality portfolio or briefcase with a few extra copies of your resume, your references, and paper and pen.

 

So, go out there with confidence in your slam-dunk appearance and land the job of your dreams!