First Impressions Count As noted by our early work, employers have already made an impression based on how we’re dressed. What impression are we leaving and what does it take to leave a good impression? What is appropriate attire for an interview??

General Guidelines Clothing should be neat, clean, and pressed. This means ironing or a trip to the dry-cleaners. Shower or bathe the morning of the interview. Wear deodorant. Don’t wear cologne/aftershave or perfume: you don’t want to smell overpowering or worse, cause an allergic reaction.

Make sure you have fresh breath Make sure you have fresh breath. Brush your teeth before you leave, and don’t eat before the interview. Don’t smoke right before an interview. If you have a facial piercing or earrings, remove the jewelry. Your hair should be neat, clean, and conservative He is half way there!

Women Suit and blouse – skirt or pants Skirt must be knee length or longer Watch blouse neckline/cleavage Shoes must be close toed with a moderate heel Hosiery is a must Stay with solid colors

Keep makeup minimal and natural Avoid bright or unusual colors (e.g., purple lipstick) or very long nails. Think Job Candidate, not Mimi Hair should be pulled back and styled To avoid nervous habits of playing with hair or too much focus on style

Men A suit means a matching jacket and pants, dress shirt, tie, coordinating socks & dress shoes. Avoid loud suit colors & styles Ties must be conservative Shined and polished dress shoes Freshly cut and styled hair preferably no facial hair Shave morning of

You be the judge In your group, you will be handed a picture of a job candidate: As an employer give us your first impressions, good and bad. What can this candidate do to adjust their appearance? You will present your ideas to the class as the candidates picture will be displayed on the screen You have 5 minutes to gather your ideas to be presented

Candidate # 1

Candidate #2

Candidate # 3

Candidate # 4 .

Candidate #5

Candidate #6

Candidate # 7

Candidate # 8

Review Dress for success If you have to ask, “can I wear this?” The answer is always “NO” If you are unsure, lean on the conservative side Always dress 3 levels higher than the job you are interviewing for Remember that an interviewer is selecting you to represent the company Looking even slightly unprofessional can cost you the job

Remember… It is important to realize that you want to stand out for your qualifications for the job… not for what you are wearing.