1. How to Dress for Professional Impressions

2. First Impressions Matter
You have worked hard researching your prospective employer and you know what you need to say to convince him/her you are the best candidate for the job. But there’s one more thing to think about before the big day—the first impression. Your physical appearance, what you do when you meet the interviewer, and your body language during the interview all contribute to the opinion your interviewer will form of you. Be prepared to make a great first impression from the second you enter the parking lot.

3. Attire
Appropriate interview attire is determined by the position and environment that you are applying for. Some positions may expect you to wear professional attire appropriate while others may consider business casual attire appropriate. Researching the business that you are interviewing for can help you to determine how to present yourself on the big day.

4. Business Casual Men Business Casual Women
Button Down, One or Two Tone Shirts (Clean and Pressed)
Sports Jacket Optional
Brown, Grey, Black, Navy, or Khaki Slacks
Tie
Appropriate Blouse
Blazer Optional
Brown, Grey, Black, Navy or Khaki Skirt or Slacks

5. Business Professional Men Business Professional Women
Good Quality, Button Down, One or Two Tone Shirts (Clean and Pressed)
Navy, Black, Brown, or Grey Suit (Tailored and Dry Cleaned)
Tie (Silk and Good Quality)
Good Quality, Button Down Blouse (Clean and Pressed)
Brown, Grey, Black, Navy Suit (Tailored and Dry Cleaned)
Length Appropriate Suit Skirt or Pants

6. Business Casual
Inappropriate...
Appropriate!

7. Business Professional
Inappropriate...
Appropriate

8. Shoes Men: Women: Polished Slip- Ons
Laced Dress Shoes: Black, Cordovan or Brown
Compliment your suit and shoes with socks that match your attire color scheme.
Women:
Neat and Polished
Heels should be no higher than 4 inches
Flats are appropriate for women who do not feel comfortable in heels
Both open and closed toe are appropriate
Color should compliment attire

9. Business Casual for Men
Inappropriate Appropriate

10. Business Professional for Men
Inappropriate Appropriate

11. Business Casual for Women
Inappropriate Appropriate

12. Business Professional for Women
Inappropriate Appropriate

13. Accessories
When it comes to accessories, less is more! It’s best to choose 1 or 2 simple accessories like a watch and stud earrings.
Jewelry
Avoid excessive chains or necklaces
Minimize rings to wedding or college ring
Use your professional discretion with piercings and/or earrings
Conservative watch and/or one bangle bracelet
Belts
Belt should be a neutral color
Coordinate belt and shoe color
Portfolio vs. Purse
Opt for a sharp, professional looking portfolio instead of your purse
Choose a good quality portfolio with compartments for keys or lipstick
Carry copies of your resume and a pad for note taking

14. Appearance Hair: Facial: Should be well groomed and clean
If distracted by hair, pull back
Professional
Clean
Facial:
Well groomed if appropriate for the field
Mustache alone:
Not advised
Beard (with/ without mustache):
Well groomed and professional
No scruff

15. Appearance Make Up Fragrances
If you wear make up, should be neutral and not distracting
Fragrances
Neutral scent deodorant/ antiperspirant
Avoid cologne or heavy scented after shave
Avoid heavy scented lotions and perfumes

16. Tips and Tricks
Have your suit professional tailored and try on a few days before. This ensures:
The suit looks appropriate on you
You will feel comfortable and self-confident in your suit
Clothing should be freshly pressed- no wrinkles!
Empty pockets to avoid distractive noises (change, keys, etc) and outlines
Turn off cell phones and beepers
Do not chew gum
Avoid smoking cigarettes prior to interview
Dress like you already have the job you want

17. Review

18. True or False: I can wear whatever kind of jewelry I want
Less is better. Minimize distractions and keep it simple.

19. True or False: I have to wear a suit to an interview
Every interview has its own requirements, and knowing what to wear on the day of the interview is crucial.
If you are interviewing for a job in a less formal environment, then it may be acceptable for men to wear slacks, a collared shirt, and a tie. Women can wear a simple dress or matching skirt and blouse. Whatever you decide should be clean and pressed.

20. For men, what are the appropriate shoes to wear to an interview?
Leather, black or brown, and polished with no worn down heels
Plain lace up shoes
Slip ons that are dressy and in good taste
Business socks that match your pants
All of the above

21. This is your one chance to make a good first impression!
We wish you the best of luck! Remember to smile!