Showing up for a job interview can be a nerve-wracking experience. Attention to detail is essential and it is important to dress to look your best. During job interviews, most companies tend to prefer formal wear, so it is advisable to choose clothes that emphasize your professionalism and at the same time are in harmony with the culture of the specific company.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Examine the Company
Step 1. Walk past the venue
Before the interview, if possible, take a look at the company. Walk past it and get an idea of how the women who work there dress.
- Find out, for example, if women wear pants or skirts more often, and if they usually dress more or less formally. It's best not to go on a Friday, as companies sometimes invite employees to dress more casually on that day.
- Also note if they are wearing socks and what kind of jewelry and accessories they are sporting.
Step 2. Check on social media
By doing so, in fact, you can understand how those who work for the company dress, especially if the company itself posts images taken in the office.
Step 3. Email the HR manager
There is nothing wrong with asking directly what type of clothing is appropriate. Enter this question in the email with which you agree to take the interview.
An example of a question is: "Could you advise me which type of clothing is best suited for an interview at your company?"
Step 4. Consider the branch of the company and the area where it operates
Every company is part of an industry, and every industry has clothing standards. For example, librarians don't dress like employees of a financial consulting firm. Furthermore, even within the same branch there are differences according to the geographical area.
- Think carefully about the type of work you will be doing. For example, it is not recommended to show up in high heels for an interview to become a nurse, as you may appear unsuitable for a job that requires you to stand many hours.
- Displaying piercings and tattoos may be acceptable if you are applying for a job in the alternative art world or at a tattoo parlor, but if the interview is to become a teacher it will probably be better to hide them.
Step 5. Dress more formally than clothing that is worn on a daily basis
Once you understand how the women employed at the company where you will be interviewing normally dress, dress slightly more formally. For example, if your normal clothing is elegant trousers or skirts, socks and a blouse, opt for a suit.
Part 2 of 2: Dressing Formally
Step 1. Choose a business suit
If you are not sure how to dress, know that a suit is always a good choice. Whether it should have a skirt or trousers, the choice is yours. In general, more conservative companies may prefer the skirt.
- Choose a suit that fits you well, not too flashy and preferably dark.
- You'll be more eye-catching with designer clothes, but it's not really necessary. Wear a dress of the best quality you can afford, and if you can pair it with a briefcase, bag or scarf from a high-end brand.
- The right length of the skirt is usually up to the knee. If it is longer it must not be swollen or with too many folds.
Step 2. Choose a plain shirt
Go for neutral colors like white, beige, gray or black. It is usually best to wear a button-down shirt or blouse.
However, you can also wear sleeveless turtleneck tops or knitted tops; the important thing is that they are well made and look professional
Step 3. If you don't wear a business suit, choose something classy
If the company has a more casual style, you could also avoid wearing a suit, but still wear classy and sophisticated clothes. A safe choice in this case is a dark sweater and tailored trousers.
- However, if you are wearing a shirt, make sure it is button-down and has a collar.
- Again, dark colors and high-quality materials are preferable. You don't necessarily have to buy clothes from luxury brands, but take into account the quality and durability of the materials. Avoid clothes that are too showy or that have a very bright color pattern.
- Pay attention to the details. Before you go out, make sure your clothes have no seams, stains or holes. If you have pets, don't forget to use the lint roller.
Step 4. When in doubt, put on your socks
Some workplaces require socks regardless of the climate, in other environments it doesn't really matter. If you're not sure what to do, it's best to be too cautious and wear socks.
Step 5. Avoid jeans
They are also not suitable for interviews with more informal companies. Dressing well shows you care about getting the job. Show that you are a professional, even if you will wear more casual clothes on normal workdays.
Step 6. The dress must be clean and ironed
Double check that it is clean and that there are no wrinkles. A week before the interview, review it, and take it to the laundry if necessary.
Step 7. Put on classic shoes
An ideal choice are pumps with medium heels. Be careful not to wear shoes that you have difficulty walking in. If you don't like heels at all, the important thing is that the shoes are flat and simple.
It is also important to take into consideration the type of industry when choosing a shoe. In the world of fashion, for example, flashy shoes with high heels might also be indicated, while in the field of education you can wear simple ballet flats
Step 8. Don't wear too much jewelry
Limit yourself to one necklace and a small pair of earrings, and don't wear too many rings.
It is also better to avoid any type of piercing, with the exception of simple earrings. Piercings are frowned upon in many work environments
Step 9. Don't overdo the makeup
As with jewelry, the key is simplicity. Try to get a natural look, without treading on the hand in terms of lines and colors.
- Use a neutral, natural color concealer, and a neutral powder to get rid of the shiny effect. Use a blush that suits your complexion; usually hot pink and peach are the most suitable colors.
- For the eyes, use light brown or slightly darker eyeshadow than your skin to add dimension without making it obvious that you are wearing makeup. You can use an eyeliner, but it is better if a light gray color, applying it lightly on the upper eyelid.
- Finally, choose a lipstick, normal or liquid, of the same color as your lips.
- In general, wear light makeup. The goal is to give some color and make the skin more even without it being understood that you are wearing makeup.
Step 10. Bring a briefcase
If you need to carry important documents with you, add a professional-looking briefcase. Choose a dark one and possibly with a modern design. As for the material, leather is an excellent choice.
