Dress 2 Impress! The Dos and Don'ts of Professional Attire

People are often judged by the clothes they wear. The image you project should always be professional and appropriate to your job. Will dressing properly get you the job? Should you be judged by what you wear? How should you dress? What is considered the proper dress for an interview?

Will dressing properly get you the job? Make a great first impression You never get a second chance to make a first impression. Dressing conservatively is always the safest route. Dress for the position you want, not the position you have.

Will dressing properly get you the job? Your perceived value as viewed by your audience Personality Competencies Appearance The Differentiator – the unique value or benefit to your audience

Should you be judged by what you wear? Non-verbal communication is a major part of the interview 7% of your message is communicated verbally. 93% of your message is communicated non- verbally.

Should you be judged by what you wear? Interviewing Points to Compliment Your Appearance Answer questions confidently Look interviewer in the eye when speaking and listening Sit tall in the chair Have relevant questions to ask Arrive 10 minutes early Turn your cell phone/pager/PDA off Do not chew gum Smile and use a firm handshake What image do you want to project on the job?

How should you dress? Wear shoes that are well-maintained. Wear clothing clean and neatly pressed. Keep accessories to a minimum. Avoid excessive amounts of fragrance. Fingernails should be well trimmed. Cover any visible tattoos. Wear a suit. Be careful of trends.

What is considered the proper dress for an interview? Women Conservative two-piece business suit Professional blouse Hosiery Professional dress shoes Well groomed conservative hairstyle Conservative make up Men Conservative two-piece business suit Shirt with a simple style: Long- sleeved Dark dress socks Polished dark dress shoes Coordinating tie Well groomed conservative hairstyle

Professional Attire Women: think Jessica Pearson from USAs SUITS Men: think James Bond or Barney Stinson

Top Shelf Business Casual Attire Women: Men:

Top Shelf Business Casual Attire Women: Men:

Business Casual Attire Women: Men:

What NOT to Wear Clothing that doesnt fit – either too small or too big Clothing that is wrinkled, dirty, or worn out Beach clothes – shorts, capris, casual skirts, sundresses and flip flops

What NOT to Wear Tattoos and body piercings should not be visible Keep accessories and make up to a minimum Men: keep facial hair neat & trimmed Women: Pantyhose – yes or no? In a professional setting – yes! Women: wear nude colored nail polish or a French manicure. If you place your hand next to your face and the eye is drawn to your nails, they are too distracting.

What NOT to Wear

When in doubt, dont wear it! Unless otherwise instructed you can never be too dressed up for an interview!