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A Safety Message from VP of Student Affairs

Dress for Success!

picture: Dress for Success

Dressing for the Interview

The first few moments of an interview are crucial. Almost immediately, the employer begins to form an initial impression of you based mostly on your handshake, manner, and dress. As a rule of thumb always dress conservatively and professionally. Although "business casual" may be appropriate for daily wear in the workplace, it is important to note that such dress is inappropriate for an interview. In addition, trying to make an impression by choosing clothes that will make you stand out is a bad idea. The interviewer will most likely remember such a candidate for the wrong reasons (such as odd colored hair or clothing).

Here are some guidelines to keep in mind:

Men & Women:
  • No visible tattoos or body piercings
  • Make sure you are freshly showered/bathed
  • No wrinkles, stains, rips or holes in clothing
  • Make sure clothing is clean, lint-free and tag-free
  • No heavy cologne or perfume
  • Make sure your breath is fresh (no gum or mints)
  • No backpacks or loose papers- use a portfolio
  • No brightly or oddly colored hair (orange, green, blue, pink/red, etc.)
  • Do not smoke for a few days before (make sure your clothes are free of smoke)
  • No ethnically-themed or based clothes
  • Always wear deodorant
Men's DOs & DON'Ts
  • DO wear a dark-colored suit that is fitted properly and buttoned (the jacket should match the pants).
  • Loud colors or patterns? Always a DON'T when interviewing. Choose a conservative tie instead.
  • DO wear a pressed white or ivory long sleeved shirt.
  • DO wear a dark belt that matches your suit. A sleek briefcase completes this look.
  • Keep it simple!
    Remember to remove all jewelry except a watch and wedding or class ring and trim facial hair and long sideburns.
  • Remember to wear dark dress socks and shoes, preferably wing-tipped. Make sure that shoes are polished and scuff-free.
Women's DOs & DON'Ts
  • Women should choose a dark suit with matching knee-length skirt.
  • DON'T bare all!
  • DO choose a dress blouse with a conservative neckline.
  • Step into an interview feeling confident.
    Sneakers and other casual shoes are always a DON'T.
    Instead, choose closed-toe dress shoes with a moderate heel.
  • DON'T be caught in a hairy situation! If hair is shoulder length or longer, pull back neatly. For colored hair, make sure roots are not showing.
  • DO keep makeup light, fresh and natural.
  • DO make sure nails are neat, clean, and chip-free. Remove brightly colored fingernail polish before your interview.
  • DO choose minimal, conservative jewelry and a matching dress watch.
  • DO remember that neutral or skin-toned hosiery is a must! Skip the crazy patterns.
  • DON'T know which bag to grab? A briefcase or small purse that matches the color of your shoes is a smart move.
Click to view men's photo gallery Click to view women's photo gallery
picture: Appearance Does Matter Appearance Does Matter

Don't forget: An employer can determine a lot about a candidate based on non-verbal aspects of an interview such as a handshake, eye contact, posture, body language, grooming and of course, dress! First impressions count, so always remember to bring along your best interview accessory: a big smile!

 
Student Affairs
Last Modified: Jul 01, 2008, 09:41am
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