The modern working world varies greatly, as well as the dress code for different industries. A lot of famous CEOs do not shy away from speaking publicly in casual attire. At the same time, modern corporate culture still clings toward a conservative dress code. So, how to dress for an interview and make a striking first impression?
First of all, you need to prove yourself worthy of the position in your resume. If you want to acquire the necessary skills for a job and for handling an interview, Skillhub will be the best place to do so.
Any career advice expert would say that a well-tailored suit is a significant contribution to your success in an interview. A hiring manager pays attention to the candidate’s appearance and evaluates personal traits by general look too.
First and foremost, you need to learn about the corporate culture in which you are enrolling. If you come to the official corporation in a casual dress, no one would be impressed. At the same time, an official suit in a more relaxed environment would be odd as well.
How to Dress for an Interview: Men’s Corporate Suit
If you are looking for a job in a traditional industry such as banking, insurance, or law – a strict, professional suit is the best choice. It does not have to be expensive or made from exclusive materials. Still, the suit should fit you well and not have any stains. If you want to get more interviews, your looks should be fitting.
Here are some tips on how to choose a professional, corporate attire for men:
- Monochrome suit of dark gray, navy, or black color.
- Long-sleeve shirt, white or matching color to the suit.
- Matching tie and a leather belt.
- Conservative shoes and dark socks.
- Overall neatness (hair, nails, shaving).
It is always important to remember not only to have a fitting costume but to present one as well.
How to Dress for an Interview: Women’s Corporate Suit
Women’s dress code for a corporate interview is more variable than men’s. Women have more choices in terms of outfits, wearing or not wearing pantyhose, and choose from different amounts and sorts of jewelry in a corporate career field.
Still, the general rules are similar to ones for men: being dressed professionally and conservatively. It is true for hairstyle, nails, and decorations as well. In terms of carrying a bag, the best accessory is the one that can fit a resume and is not flashy. To choose fitting attire is to invest in your career.
Here are general tips for women’s professional attire:
- A suit in dark grey, navy, or black color.
- Suit skirt. Its length should be just below or above the knee.
- Suit-matching blouse.
- Limited jewelry. A woman should not wear an overwhelming amount of bracelets or big, dangling earrings.
- Professional hairstyle.
In terms of makeup and perfume – everything should be limited. Likewise to the men’s case, the common rules of hygiene are the first and foremost rule for making a good impression on an interview.
How to Dress for an Interview: Casual Attire
Some companies may strive to create a free atmosphere and comfortable dress code. For example, an IT startup or independent business. Still, there are some common tips that a candidate should follow to make a good impression with casual attire.
- Business casual. It is the universal solution for most casual interviews. Business casual means that you can leave the suit. However, no jeans, no sneakers, and no sports attire. Conservative shoes, monochrome pants, and long-sleeve shirts are the best options for a casual business interview for men. Business casual options for women may be a blouse and a skirt with pantyhose.
- Startup casual. If you are aiming for a more informal company, jeans and sneakers may work. Still, you should look neat and sharp. For making a good first impression, you need to give something more than people who already work there.
- No particular dress code. If a company does not have any particular dress code, you may stick to the casual business option. It is always a good call if you meet your recruiter in a more formal dress and land an interview.
General Tips on Making a Good First Impression
You have the best fitting attire, and half of the job is done. Nevertheless, several tips will help you to realize the full potential of your suit. First of all, prepare your clothes beforehand. The night before the interview is the best time for making preparations – put your clothes on a visible spot, and make sure that all pieces match. Besides, be sure to polish your footwear also.
After an interview, no matter the results, bring your clothes to the cleaner to make them look fresh. You will be ready for the next interview in no time due to it.
Final Words
Making a good first impression is an important task during an interview. You may choose the best fitting attire, present the best possible qualification you can, but still do not pass. It does not mean that the tips did not work or something was wrong with your suit.
As long as you follow the company’s dress code and try to fit the corporate culture, you have a high chance of hitting the mark. Therefore, do not give up and keep your looks sharp for the interviews to come.