Why Looks Really Do Matter
Congratulations, you landed the interview! Now – you need to make a great impression.
Are you digging through your closet? Asking everyone you know what you should wear? What kind of tie do you put on? What should you do with your hair? If you’re getting differing opinions, here are some simple guidelines to help – plus two things not everyone considers but employers do notice:
1. Dress for the job you want, not the job you currently have. If the industry is more formal, dress accordingly. If the position is a step up from your current one, dress better than you normally would. Spend some money on a new suit that would fit your new role. And no matter what – do your homework. Find out what the culture is like so you can dress appropriately.
2. Don't try to make a major statement with your clothes. You want your personality and qualifications to stand out-not the funky clothes you're wearing, unless it's a creative environment where that's more acceptable.
3. It’s ok to express your individuality in some way. If you want to show your personality with your clothing, wear a scarf, tie or something else small that expresses it. You don’t want the person interviewing you to be distracted by a large hat or huge bulky belt buckle.
4. If you aren’t sure what the culture is like for your particular industry, err on the side of being more professional and formal than casual. Not all workplaces are as casual as you might expect these days.
5. You want to wear higher quality clothes. It makes an impression and we all know that first impressions are important. If you don’t have a decent suit, go out and buy one; it’ll be worth it. Wearing higher quality clothes shows that you are willing to invest in your career and your future. You are dressing for success!
Stay tuned tomorrow for Part II of Preparing for Your Interview
Hallie Crawford
Career Coach & Career Speaker
P.S. Are you interested in getting help from one of our job search coaches? Our upcoming teleclass might be the place to start. Read more here: http://www.createyourcareerpath.com/jobsearch.html
