Dressing for an Interview

It is said that a person is judged by the clothes he wears. Appropriate clothing for any particular setting will make you stand out from the crowd. The right attitude, skills and experience are some important criteria to achieve success in any job interview. Another important aspect that must be taken into consideration is the interview attire. When you go for a job interview, the first thing that the interviewer will notice about you (whether you like it or not) is your attire. Your dress will speak volumes about your attitude and personality. It is said that the first impression of a person is important, especially in an interview. No matter how smartly or quickly you answer the questions, if you aren't dressed properly for the interview, then you may fail to make an impression on your future employers and all your efforts will go futile. The right dress and attitude will earn you your dream job.

How to Dress for an Interview - Male

Before you go for an interview, make sure you have the correct attire that fits you properly. Follow these tips and get ready to bag the job of your dreams.

• The most important thing to be kept in mind is that your clothes fit you properly. Avoid loose fitting and faded clothes when dressing for an interview. Choose clothes from your wardrobe instead of borrowing from a friend or buying them at the last moment.
• Your shoes should be comfortable and match your clothes. If any of these is misfitting then you will experience discomfort. Any sign of discomfort can be easily noticeable and may create a bad impression on the interviewer.
• Dress formally for an interview. It actually pays if you take pains to check out the dress code of the company where you are going for an interview.
• Wear a suit, preferably in dark gray, navy or black with a matching shirt (crisp white or light blue). Choose a sober colored matching tie with diagonal lines or small patterns on it. Avoid using brightly colored ties and wild prints that will look like a complete mismatch with your suit. Make sure that the suit fits you correctly and is crisply ironed.
• If you know that the company does not expect you to wear suits, then choose a well pressed slacks or khakis with a clean button-down shirt, and a belt. Your belt must match the color of your shoes. If you are wearing a brown, navy or black outfit then your shoes must be black. Or if you are wearing muted pastels or medium toned colors, opt for dark brown leather shoes.
• Shave before an interview. Don't sport a stubble for an interview. You make look like a hunk with facial hair but not for an interview. Your beard will give you a shabby appearance and fail to create an impression on your future employers.
• Polish your shoes on the previous night before the interview. Scuff marks or dirt may reveal a lack of attention and forethought to detail.
• Carry a leather briefcase or a vinyl-bound portfolio for your resume and other necessary documents. This will add a professional look to your appearance.
• Don't use strong perfumes or aftershave lotions on the day of your interview. You don't want the interviewer to feel nauseous.
• And finally, before you leave for the interview, check yourself in the mirror. See that your hair is combed properly and your dress does not have wrinkles or stains.

How to Dress for an Interview - Female

It is necessary to create a good impression on the interviewers. So for doing so, you need to be aware of the right ways to dress.

• Remember that there is only one chance to make a first impression, so you must take proper care for dressing for a job interview. Choose a well fitting slacks and blouse if you are going for an interview in an informal place of business.
• If the place expects you to be in formals, then a nice plain suit with a matching shirt will be appropriate. Stick to dark beige, navy blue or black color. Next choose a blouse or shirt that will complement your suit. Make sure it contrasts with the suit. Avoid lace, ruffles or any sort of decoration as it will give a casual outlook. You can even wear a silk scarf to complete the formal look.
• The next thing you need to take care of is your hair. Tie your hair into a bun or simple comb it properly. Your hairstyle should go with your dress. A bun is always safe as it gives a conservative and formal approach.
• Wear closed toe shoes, loafers or pumps. If you are wearing a skirt, don't forget nylons.
• Avoid wearing lots of make up, dark lipsticks, jewelry etc. Use lightly blended blush and foundation, with a colored matte lipstick and brown or black mascara.
• Don't wear eyeshadow, as it may start powdering and create the appearance of dark circles. Make sure that your nails are clipped properly and your nail polish is not chapped before you go for the interview.
• Avoid wearing tight fitting dresses, mini skirts, strapped sandals, sloppy overalls etc. Also check whether your outfit has stains, tears, or creases. Make sure that your nylons don't have holes in them.
• Carry a decent portfolio or briefcase for your documents. Avoid those over-sized handbags.

It is important to make a good impression on the interviewer, by presenting yourself in a professional and poised manner. It is also essential that you take all the necessary care while dressing for an interview. All the best!