What to wear to an interview (and what to avoid)
71% of companies have admitted to rejecting applicants who were not dressed appropriately. Statistics like these highlight the importance of making a good first impression in your job interview, this article will help you understand how to prepare for your job interview, what to wear to your job interview, what to avoid wearing and the different kinds of workplace attire.
How to prepare:
When preparing for your interview, make sure to research the company’s dress code to get a sense of the company’s environment, culture and expectations. You can find the company’s dress code by either contacting them via phone or email, or you can look at their social media profiles to try and get a better understanding of the everyday work attire. Additionally, you should also research into the predicted weather in the area on the date of your interview, you don’t want any surprises, so bring an umbrella just in case!
Once you have a better understanding of the dress code, you should then match your outfit to the workplace.
Match the workplace
Casual
What to wear for an interview where the dress code is casual:
Dark pants
Bright colours
A knee length skirt or dress
A cardigan
Flats
Business casual
What to wear for an interview where the dress code is business casual:
Blazers
Dark pants
Belts
Loafers or heels
Jewelry that isn’t too bold or fidgety
Corporate
What to wear for an interview where the dress code is corporate:
A suit
A tailored, matching set
Button down shirts and blouses
Closed-toed shoes or heels.
Fashion forward
In creative environments, you may find that the dress codes are more fashion focused instead of a strict dress code. There may still be requirements on dress code, but generally, workplaces such as art studios and clothing boutiques are assumably more trend centered.
This can be reflected in your:
Choice of colour
Ability to match and co-ordinate
Accessories that show personality
Makeup
What not to wear
Clothing with stains or defects
Ripped, baggy jeans
Anything uncomfortable
Inappropriate footwear
Excessive makeup
Statement jewelry
Excessive perfume
Once you have decided what you're wearing to your interview, don't stop your planning there. There are more steps to achieving success at an interview.
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