Saturday, May 31, 2014

How To Successfully Dress For A Job Interview

By Richard Owens


There was once a time when people knew how to dress for a job interview in a professional manner. Men would put on quality business suits, while women would wear a nice dress and that was fine. As the years progressed, the tried and true approach to interview attire was tested and the once conservative attire for an interview has grown into a relaxed causal style.

Conservative Versus Casual

Although there are still some industries that still require conservative attire, others are allowing people to wear jeans, flip-flops and t-shirts to work. While this attire is acceptable for those offices when you are working there, you shouldn't come to the interview dressed in such a casual manner.

First Impressions Can Only Be Made Once

You may not like the way it sounds, but you only have one opportunity to make a good first impression. That first impression comes during the first 30 seconds of a job interview. When considering how to dress for a job interview, think about the impression you wish to make on the hiring manager. The hiring manager is the person who will be visualizing you in the position they want to fill.

Dress Beyond the Expectations for the Job

Job interview experts recommend that you dress above the norm for the industry you are applying in. An example would be to dress up in business casual when the staff is dressed in jeans. While you want to be successful and secure the position, you also need to look like you are ready to join the team without being over the top.

Research

If you want to land the job, then you need to do everything you can to prepare for the interview. Make sure you take the time to understand the culture and the dress code of this organization. A simple call to the Human Resources department to check on the dress code of the company will work.

Arrange a Collection of Power Outfits Designed for Success

After determining the appropriate dress, make certain that you have enough outfits in your closet to accommodate the interview process. It may be necessary to add a few pieces to your wardrobe, but it will be worth the investment when you get a job. Remember, people may not notice when you are well put together, but they certainly will if you are not.

Dress for Comfort

When you are dressed in your interview clothes, it will become very obvious if you aren't comfortable and people will notice it in how you present yourself. It is important that you spend time in the clothing before you head out and ensure you have purchased clothes that will be comfortable for a period of time. If necessary, you may want to look at having your clothing tailored.

Grooming

Grooming is critical and shouldn't be ignored. Those finishing touches are going to be noticed in your interview. Make sure your hair is clean and styled your fingernails are well manicured. The person interviewing you will be sizing you up from head to toe and if you look the part to them, it can help to increase your chances of landing the job.

Dress So They Envision You in That Position

Once you have landed the job you are after, continue dressing for success. If you want to move up into a management position, dress like management. You never know, you may be continually interviewing for that position.




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