What to Wear to a Job Interview

Posted on February 10, 2016

When you head off to a job interview, in whatever guise, what you wear is just as important as what you say. Look at it this way – your clothes and the way you present yourself are a reflection of who you are, your personality, how seriously you take yourself and life, and in the end, how seriously you would take the job you’re being interviewed for.

It’s for this reason that you need to pay serious attention to what you wear to your upcoming interview.

We know that interviews themselves are scary things, but you can put yourself ahead of the competition if you present yourself in the right way.

Of course, you could be attending an interview in a variety of different circumstances, be it for a part time job on top of your studies, in order to earn a little extra cash, or it could be that you’re looking to start your career on a full-time basis, and you’re being interviewed for your first job.

Whichever of these you fall into, or somewhere in the middle, check out these suggestions for what to wear to power you to success.

Research the company

It’s not just about what to say or write in cover letter when you are interviewed in terms of the company and its ethos, but also about what their dress code is. You need to fit in with this as soon as possible, and that starts at the interview. Google is your friend here, so do a little investigating and put yourself ahead of the game. This shows initiative and will stand you in good stead. Some companies have a more relaxed dress code for work, but that doesn’t mean you should adopt this for your interview, simply try and incorporate it, whilst still being smart and well turned out.

Which leads us onto …. being smart and well turned out

Clothes should be in good condition, no rips or tears, and they should be ironed to get rid of any creases. If ripped jeans are in, don’t wear them – think smart and you won’t go far wrong. Basically, your appearance has to reflect your work ethic, but also hint at your own personality too, in a subtle but clear way. It’s a fine line, but one which when done correctly, works very well indeed.

For instance, if you’re going for a part time job on top of your studies in a coffee house and you’re being interviewed for a barista job, power dressing won’t be the way forward; instead, you need to think about being smart, but also showing that you are an individual yourself and you can connect with the people you will be working with. It’s hard to give suggestions, because everyone’s personality is different, but a pair of black trousers with a brightly coloured shirt could show personality, however don’t go for neon because that doesn’t look good on anyone! Laid back but smart would be the way forward here, perhaps a patterned scarf would hint at your quirky nature.

Don’t be inappropriate

Flashing the flesh will not win you any fans, and it will probably turn your interviewers right off. Whilst you might be under the (rather false) impression that a cleavage on show might get you remembered, bear in mind that you will be remembered for the wrong reasons. Think classy and sophisticated, rather than trashy.

As we hinted at before, you can express your personality, but tone it down!

Nobody said you had to totally avoid showing your personality in your dress, but don’t be too ‘out there’ because it may not translate the same meaning as you intend. Clothing needs to be age appropriate, as well as appropriate for the situation.

For instance, if you’re going for an interview for a law internship, you need to stick to the very professional and smart rules, such as a suit, tie, and dress shoes for the men, and a trouser suit, skirt, or dress to the knee or below for the girls. On the other hand, if you’re heading off for an interview in a funky art gallery, being too smart might not win you the right look.

Grooming is just as important

What you wear is imperative, but your general upkeep is too! Of course, we are talking about personal hygiene, having clean, tidy hair, having a shave for the boys amongst you, and generally smelling fresh and flowery, rather than as though you have just pulled a study all-nighter. Don’t forget this important step!

Dressing for your interview is about knowing what kind of job you’re going for and tailoring what you wear accordingly. Do your research, show your personality a little, but always be smart.

Good luck!