Fashion checklist for a Job interview

Fashion checklist for a Job interview

Did you know that how you dress equals your perceived level of professionalism? How professional you look can impact whether you are perceived as smart, competent, detailed oriented, moving up or down the corporate ladder or credible. Especially when you are dressing for a job interview, make sure your image communicates exactly how you want to be perceived. The way you dress for work is a communications tool that can be used strategically to your advantage. Here are twelve tips from Élan Image Management to guide you to project the highest level of professionalism to ensure you nail that job interview.

Do’s:

·         The greater the number of items of clothing you wear at one time, the greater degree of formality/ professionalism you express. For most interviews, you will want to always wear 3 core pieces — skirt or pants, a jacket or cardigan and a blouse, shirt or shell (sometimes a dress can sub for a skirt and shell). Consider very tailored or polished looks, like a matched pants or skirt suit paired with a blouse or shirt in a flattering color or print. Alternatively, a knee length or below skirt or a classic sheath dress that is figure flattering but not tight, topped with a tailored jacket in a contrasting color is good interview choice.

·         DO always wear a jacket to an interview to quickly establish presence in professional environments. It communicates confidence, command and authority-all great first impressions.

·         For interviews, choose skirts and dresses no shorter than 2 inches above knee. Also do wear a slip if the skirt is unlined.

·         Especially in conservative businesses, stockings should be worn with skirts. Neutral or close to skin tone is best choice. Black, grey, and navy are acceptable if they match shoes or skirt.

·         Get your hair professionally cut and colored. A bad/un-groomed hair style diminishes professional impact.

·         Do walk with a quality portfolio or tote (preferably leather) to carry your interview essentials. Consider all your accessories as part of the image you are projecting.

Don’ts:

·         Accessories: Avoid cheap handbags, acrylic scarves, plastic jewelry and low end shoes which will diminish everything else you wear. Too much jewelry (or oversized or noisy jewelry) will be a distraction and will downplay your professionalism. Wear simple pieces like small earrings, a watch or a pretty scarf. And your wedding ring if married.

·         For shoes, avoid strappy sandals, chunky or platform heels which do not have a professional look. Opt for open toe pumps, slingbacks, or more conservative pumps.

·         Any garment that you would wear for sporting events, lounging, partying, or outdoor is NOT appropriate to wear in an interview/business environment. No exceptions.

·         Tank tops, spaghetti straps, plunging necklines, mini skirts etc. are always inappropriate for any job interview.

·         Wearing lacy, shiny, metallic, or floral fabrics are generally not perceived as professional.

·         Never show up to an interview in wrinkled clothing, scuffed shoes, sloppy makeup, poorly fitting clothing or looking disheveled in any way. Any of the above will destroy that initial positive first impression that is so critical and diminish your chances of a positive outcome.

The power of image in influencing first impressions and hiring decisions is unquestionable. In these challenging employment times, if you follow these tips you can be assured your image will work for you.