DRESS FOR SUCCESS
Dressing for the Interview or Job Fair
First impressions count ! You will never get a second chance to make a good first impression . Your impression begins the moment you contact the employer . It shows in your resume , job application , cover letter , phone conversations , and emails . However , no moment makes a bigger impression than your first face-to-face meeting with the employer . How should you dress ?
Understand the company culture . Each company has its own dress code . Even if the position itself is not management or upper level , you still need to look professional . For the most part , dress conservatively ( err on the side of plain colors and “ covering up ”). Go to the company website and see if there are photos of staff there . How are they dressed ? When in doubt , it ’ s acceptable to call the human resources department and ask about the dress code .
Don ’ t dress to un-impress . Avoid frayed , wrinkled , or soiled clothing . Avoid clothes that are too short , too tight , too baggy , too colorful , or too trendy . Aim for “ neutral ” as a rule . Pretend you ’ re going to a formal dinner . How would you dress ? It is better to be overdressed than underdressed . Limit the jewelry and don ’ t carry a backpack . Be mindful of whether body piercings , tattoos , and unusual hair coloring and styles are acceptable to the work culture . Don ’ t forget to shower , wear deodorant , and have clean breath . Appropriate attire at minimum is business casual ( khakis and a golf shirt ), but a business suit or dress slacks and a matching jacket is best .
Women :
• Carry a messenger bag , laptop case , or professional portfolio . Women should not carry a separate purse if possible . ( Think : one way of toting .)
• If you must carry a purse , make sure it is small and tasteful ( not torn , etc .)
• Wear well-fitting clothing ( avoid short skirts , plunging necklines , etc .).
• Don ’ t go overboard with jewelry , cosmetics , or perfume .
• Ensure hair is clean and styled .
• Present clean , neat nails .
Men :
• Wear a solid navy , dark gray , or black suit that fits . A bright white dress shirt or business-style blue shirt with a tie is also acceptable .
• Wear comfortable leather shoes which complement your suit or attire .
• Match your belt to your shoes .
• Carry a messenger bag , laptop case , or professional portfolio .
• Use jewelry or cologne sparingly .
• Ensure hair is clean , trimmed , and appropriate for workplace culture .
• Trim and clean fingernails .
• Wear well-fitting clothing ( avoid open collars , etc .).
29 | Professional Toolkit