You’ve applied for the job, passed the initial phone screen and you just got word that you are scheduled for an in person interview. If you are anything like me, one of my first thoughts after the initial excitement of making it to this point is, “What am I going to wear?” Whether you’re interviewing for a position as a Java Developer at a startup tech company or an Electrical Engineer at a Fortune 100 Defense firm, interview attire should always be a priority.
Each and every interview is a different experience and while there may be no set rules on exactly what to wear, there are a few general guidelines I highly recommend.
1) Give yourself time
Don’t wait until the day of the interview to choose your outfit. Deciding on your attire a day or two before will have you worrying less the day of.
2) Dress for the occasion
Always “dress up” for the interview. Of course you want to fit in but you also want to wear something that shows that you view this interview as important.
3) Work on looking good
Put in a little extra effort! Whether that means spending a extra few minutes on makeup, shaving, hair or even just making sure you close that top button on your shirt, take the extra few minutes!
4) Don’t overdo it
This one’s important! Too much make-up, excessive jewelry, strong aftershave or perfume, or even over the top hairstyles can be deemed as distracting and take away from the employers focus on the actual interview.
Bottom line, how you look for an interview is extremely important and can play a huge role in landing the job. Always remember, you never get a second chance to make a first impression!
By: Megan H.