The first impression you make on a potential employer is the most important one. The first judgment an interviewer makes is going to be based on how you look and what you are wearing. That’s why it’s always important to dress professionally for a job interview, even if the work environment is casual.

You will want that first impression to be not just a good one but a great one. The candidate dressed in a suit and tie is going to make a much better impression than the candidate dressed in scruffy jeans and a t-shirt.

Men

Every man that is going for interview should always try to dress colors that are not too blight. Always try to fit within the dressing guide given below for a much better impression.

A suit, solid color - navy or dark grey, a long sleeve shirt; white or coordinated with the suit, a dark belt, a tie, a dark socks, conservative leather pair of shoes, little or no jewelry, neat, professional hairstyle, neatly trimmed nails, portfolio or briefcase and always try to limit the aftershave.

Women

For women, it’s equally important to consider the dressing guide below that could result into job success. A suit; navy, black or dark grey, the suit skirt should be long enough so you can sit down comfortably, a coordinated blouse, a pair of conservative shoes, limited jewelry; no dangling earrings or arms full of bracelets, no jewelry is better than cheap jewelry, professional hairstyle, neutral pantyhose, light make-up and perfume, neatly manicured clean nails and portfolio or briefcase.

What not to take to the interview

Avoid chewing gum, not carrying or switching on your cell phone, don’t take eats and drinks to the interview place. If you have lots of piercing items, leave some of your rings at home; earrings only is a good rule and try as much as you can to cover tattoos that you might be having on your body.

You should avoid flip-flops or sneakers. Underwear; bras, bra straps, briefs, boxers, etc. that are visible are a no go - even if your bra straps match your top.

Don’t wear shorts, jeans, pants that are too low-rise or too tight and blouses that are too low-cut or too short - don’t show your cleavage or your belly.

Interview attire tips

Before you even think about going on an interview, make sure you have appropriate interview attire and everything fits correctly; get your clothes ready the night before, so you don’t have to spend time getting them ready on the day of the interview.

If your clothes are dry clean only, take them to the cleaners after an interview, so they are ready for next time.

Polish your shoes and try to bring a breath mint and use it before you enter the building or the place you’re going to have your interview from.

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