How Your Dress Affects Your Job Chances

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While it’s true that employers are more interested in your skills and credentials than what brand of suit you are wearing, it’s important to recognize that how you dress does play a part in how you are perceived by a potential employer. Unprofessional attire makes a statement that you are likely unprofessional in other ways as well, which can really put off an interviewer. Here are a few key tips from All-Star Personnel to present yourself in a professional and employable manner.

Dress for the Job You Wish You Had

A common saying when it comes to dressing for success is to dress for the job you wish you had. Consider the highest position within the company you are interviewing with, and dress as though you were interviewing for that position. This likely means a suit and tie if you are a man, or a skirt or pants and jacket if you are a woman. But also take into consideration the type of job you are applying for. If a three-piece suit would look too out of place in the workplace, consider a different type of business attire, something similar to what the interviewer is wearing. The key is to look professional and as though you would easily fit in with others in the office or workplace.

The Basics of Business Attire

There is a lot of business fashion jargon that can make dressing for an interview seem confusing. Here’s what you really need to know. Professional business attire consists of a suit and tie paired with a solid-colored dress shirt for men, and a suit, pantsuit, or dress with a jacket for women. Neutral colors are best and conservative footwear is the standard. Make sure all clothes are clean and ironed for a look that is crisp and pulled together.

Business casual is another formal dress code common in the workplace. While it is better to err on the side of more formal business attire, if you have been told that the company you are interviewing with prefers business casual, you should dress accordingly. Men can wear dress pants, a collared shirt and belt along with blazers, sweaters, and leather shoes. Women generally have more options, including tailored pants and dresses (nothing more than two inches above the knee however).

What to Avoid

Jeans should be avoided in most cases. Even if you are sure you will be able to wear jeans on the job, for an interview, choose attire that would at least be considered business casual. Also, avoid distracting jewelry, trendy clothing, as well as uncomfortable clothing or anything that has the potential to “malfunction.” An interview is not the place to be a trend-setter, or to make any kind of fashion statement. Aim for conservative yet comfortable styles that you will be confident wearing. A great tip is to have a set of interview clothes ready just in case the opportunity presents itself.

All-Star Personnel, featuring jobs in Nashville TN, works with job candidates to ensure they are properly prepared for all of their job interviews. We provide excellent service to customers and employers. Contact us today to get started!

 

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