Interview Clothes:
How to Dress for an Interview

Your interview clothes create a strong first impression with hiring managers and recruiters. While business casual may be all the rage, leave those clothes in your closet when you're in interview mode. Employers have not relaxed their expectations around how a candidate should look when they're applying for a job.

Remember old fashioned "business attire"? IBM blue...white shirt...conservative tie? That's what we're talking about!

As a recruiting pro, I counsel candidates - even my very senior level candidates - on what to wear to an interview. I extend this discussion a bit to cover other aspects of personal grooming, because I've learned over the years that the devil is in the details.

For Men

Personal Grooming Tips:

Hair:  Neatly trimmed and styled. Any facial hair should be well groomed.

Nails:  Neatly trimmed. Manicured nails can turn off an employer.

Cologne:  None. Too many people are allergic.

Smoking:  Avoid smoking on the way to the interview. Your clothes will carry the smell, and many people find it offensive.

Interview Clothes:

Suit:  Conservative. Navy blue or a dark charcoal work best. Make sure it fits!

Shirt  White is preferred. Light blue is acceptable. Long sleeves. Send your interview shirts to the dry cleaners and have them laundered! They will look better.

Tie  Conservative. Silk is preferred.

Socks  Black. Make sure that they are knee high in length.

Shoes  Shined.

Jewelry  Simple. Watch; wedding ring. Remove any pierced earrings.

Briefcase/Portfolio  Make sure your briefcase or portfolio is in good condition.

For Women

Personal Grooming Tips:

Hair:  Neatly trimmed and styled. If you have long or unruly hair, consider pulling it back.

Nails:  Neatly manicured, but not flashy. A French manicure or clear polish is best.

Perfume:  None.

Smoking:  Follow the advice above.

Interview Clothes:

Suit:  Conservative. Choose a dark suit - navy, black, charcoal, chocolate brown.

Blouse:  Add color with a blouse. Do not wear anything low cut.

Scarf:  If you wear scarves well, you can use a scarf to add color.

Dresses:  A dress with a jacket is a good alternative to a suit. No jacket? Opt for a suit!

Shoes:  Close toed, dark colored pump is best. Heels should be no higher than 2 inches.

Hose:  Skin colored hose is best.

Purse:  Choose a professional looking style. Make sure it's in good condition.

Briefcase/Portfolio:  Also need to be in good shape.

Inspect your interview clothes to make sure that they fit nicely, and have no stains or repair issues. You only get once chance to make a good first impression!

Invest in an interview wardrobe. That first impression can make a difference!