CMU Career Guide Central Michigan University Career Guide | Page 34

INTERVIEW ATTIRE DID YOU KNOW... Your interview begins the moment you drive into the parking lot. You will be sized up immediately by all who see you throughout the day. For each person you meet during the process, including the office administrators and the entire interview panel, consider the following tips: • • • • Always introduce yourself and greet other professionals with a firm handshake, smile, and eye contact. Bring with you a contagious excitement, enthusiasm, energy, and passion for your field. Be yourself: show you are poised and confident about your skills through your body language, posture, and facial expressions. Be knowledgeable about the company’s mission, vision, and values and be able to communicate them effectively. Follow these general rules in regard to interview attire: Hair should be clean, well groomed, and away from the eyes (this includes all facial hair, even in November!). Tattoos and/or body piercings should not be visible. Strong smells, including mints, perfumes, or aftershaves should be avoided in excess. Briefcases or portfolios provide an excellent outlet to store and organize documents. Clothing should fit properly. Wear a belt to hold your pants up and avoid low necklines, short skirts, and heels higher than three inches. Trendy clothing generally does not project the most professional image. Crisp, clean, and well-pressed is non-negotiable. For any type of career-related event, fair, informational interview, conference, or job shadow, always dress professionally based on your industry. Be sure to avoid: ripped jeans flip-flops and sneakers t-shirts wrinkled khakis short shorts and dresses First Impressions, operated by the Career Services office, provides students with free professional attire for interviews, job fairs, and other professional events. Located in the Bovee University Center, room 117, this resource helps students make a positive first impression in both their classrooms and careers. To apply for services with First Impressions, visit the website at cmich.edu/FirstImpressions. 34 Sign up for a practice interview through Handshake.