Appropriate Interview Attire

How to Impress Strategies for Getting the Job Master the Basics Business Dress Business Casual Casual

Strategies for Getting the Job You Want Research your potential employers place of business (visit their website or offices) Educate yourself on the companys mission and the part they play in the industry Determine how you would fit in And how you could stand out

Master the Basics Dress conservatively to ensure that the focus is on your qualifications, not your attire Its OK to inquire about the dress code Dress up one or two levels, but dont out dress the boss/interviewer Clothes are to be clean and pressed and shoes shined No jewelry, other than a watch Know how to tie a tie properly

Dont Do Save your fashion individuality for after you get the job.

Business Dress

Business Dress Explained Solid navy or dark gray single-breasted suit White or light blue long-sleeved dress shirt with simple collar Conservative tie, with classic stripes or small pattern - avoid bright colors and wild designs Clean & shined leather shoes in a classic business style (Black lace-up is a good choice)

Fit is Crucial

Good Fit Explained Jacket Follows contour of body, with no more than a 2-inch gap when pulled away from the chest Jacket length should align with where fingers meet your palm when arms are at your sides Sleeve length ends at break in the wrist Pants Back hem should end at top of the shoe heel One fold (or break) in front near the ankle

Business Casual

Business Casual Explained Appropriate for casual or artsy work environments Single-breasted sport coat/blazer with a solid or subtle pattern in navy or earth tones Medium to dark dress slacks Long-sleeved button-down shirt with an open collar (no tie) Casual leather shoes (no sneakers or sandals)

Casual

Casual Explained Rarely appropriate except for very casual work environments Khakis clean and pressed with a crease Long-sleeved button-down with subtle pattern or a solid, 2 or 3 button polo shirt Casual leather shoes (no sneakers or sandals) Collarless shirts and jeans or shorts are not acceptable

Parting Tips Concentrate on your goal of getting the job. You are not trying to impress anyone with your distinctiveness or flair in how you dress. That can come later -- after you get the job. Its better to be over-dressed than under- dressed First impressions do matter, and often make or break your chance of getting the job

Let Us Help You Dress to Impress David Wise, Owner Top Shelf Menswear, 300 Bridge Street, New Cumberland, PA topshelfmenswear.com