There is enough to worry about when preparing for an interview without needing to panic about what to wear as well. Dress codes have become more relaxed in many workplaces, but has this affected interview attire? Are full business suits still mandatory? What will make you stand out for all the right reasons?
While in many cases, your clothes will not hinder you from doing a good job, dressing well for an interview will make you seem professional and help you ‘look the part’ for the job. Not to mention, if the company you’re interviewing for has a dress code, it will show that you will fit in with the culture there. Here are some of our top tips for dressing well for your next job interview.
Unless it’s a creative industry, a garish suit, out-there accessories or loud, clashing patterns are not a good way to go. Stick to a neutral overall look, a fitted suit jacket and trousers, clean ironed shirt and polished shoes for men, a fitted blazer and A-line skirt or neutral fitted trousers for women. Subtle tones doesn’t mean you have to completely shy away from a pop of colour. In fact, it could make you stand out in a good way, as long as it’s not overwhelming.
Some people can feel uncomfortable going suited and booted to a company they know walk around all day in very casual attire. Or, your interview could be on a Friday for a company that really takes casual Friday seriously. However, it’s always worth remembering that people know you’re coming for an interview and the rules are different. They will more than likely still expect you to come in professionally dressed. If you want to find the balance between dressing smartly and professionally but still want to show that you will fit in, research the company carefully, either online or by taking a walk by the office around lunchtime and observing how some of the employees are dressed. A good rule of thumb is aim to dress one level up from what you would expect to be wearing if you got the job.
It’s important to look professional and respectable for your interview. However, the biggest mistake you can make is to choose something you’re completely uncomfortable in. If you wear something uncomfortable you will more than likely act uncomfortable and fidgety and you could easily throw off the rest of your interview. Take some time to choose what to wear to your interview, but remember, it’s what you say and how you answer the questions that really counts.
Want to make sure you nail that interview? Check out the RECRUITERS interview guide here.
Written with contributions from the RECRUITERS team
Clothes photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash
