Dressing for Success when Job Hunting

A women's guide to dressing for an executive interview

No matter how impressive your CV is or how much you've practised giving the right answer to every possible question, if you don't make a lasting first impression on your interviewer, you will most likely not land your dream job. While your choice of attire is no substitution for your skill set and years of experience, AND YES YOUR PERSONALITY, it never hurts to dress for success. You can end up sabotaging even the most outstanding job prospects if you make a clothing or grooming mistake in your interview. I’ve compiled a few basic guidelines to ensure you present a professional and competent image at your next interview. You can thank me later!

Your clothes shouldn't serve as a distraction

From wearing trousers that are too tight at the seams to wearing a shirt that is a low and revealing, there are endless errors you can make if you aren't careful about what you wear for an interview. Try not to wear something that will distract the interviewer while he/she is interviewing you. Your clothes should add value to your personality instead of proving to be a disturbance.

Grooming

The cliché ‘less is more’ works perfectly in this situation. Keep your hairstyle simple and classy and the number of jewelry pieces restricted to one or two, try to invest in classic more expensive pieces, you don’t need to spend a fortune but a good quality watch or bracelet will stand the test of time and will also show you appreciate quality. Your accessories should complement your clothes, not overpower them. If you are wearing make-up, apply it in a manner that enhances your features and natural colouring. Never choose new makeup colours or products unless guided by a professional as you don’t want to feel not like you or uncomfortable in your own skin! Same goes for your perfume. Keep it subtle to avoid overpowering anyone with the smell or causing distress to those who are sensitive to strong perfume.

Dress for your position

Dressing for the position you're applying for doesn't translate to turning up in denims and a cropped top if you're looking to be hired as an intern or for a junior position. Similarly, if you're interviewing for the role of a senior manager, you need to dress to your level. Wearing low quality dresses or too much pattern is a strict no-no. Also, pay attention to your shoes and handbag to make sure they aren't torn at the edges or withered from use. Your choice of attire will tell the interviewer a lot about you. Your potential employer will want to know they can put you in any environment whether it be with a new client or representing them at a conference and be confident in your dress. Dress for the job you want, not the job you have!

Don't restrict yourself to black

A lot of people believe that dressing in black translates to power-dressing. While this is true to a certain extent or at least from a psychology perspective, it is important to pick colours that are not only flattering for your colouring, but also true to your personality. Don't restrict your choice of colour to black or darker colours. If you feel feminine tones like pink and purple look great on you, go for it. If you suit red and know that it makes you feel confident then wear it. If you're confident in your dress, it will show and your personality will do the talking for you.

In some companies it may be appropriate to dress a little casually for a second interview, but it is still imperative to look professional nonetheless. You also need to check this with HR or your Interviewer, never make that judgement yourself. Follow the above mentioned guidelines and you're sure to leave an indelible impression on your interviewer and improve your prospects of landing the job.

For help with Interview Dressing why not book my Wardrobe & Interview Preparation package, it will take you through how to dress for you, interview outfit shopping and all the preparation you need to feel confident and ready for your Interview.