Dress For Success - Your Wardrobe Matters!

Dress for Success--and Walk Away with the Job

In today's job market, having even the slightest edge on your competition counts. Your potential employer makes assumptions about you based on that very first look, so make certain the impression you leave is a strong one. Dressing for success doesn't require an expensive wardrobe, but it does require a bit of fashion savvy.

Dress for Your Industry
Think about the job you are interviewing for--what attire is appropriate? High-powered jobs require equally powerful suits. If you are applying for a job that demands creativity, a bit of flair might be in order. Are you applying for a job that requires physical labor and many hours on your feet? Consider wearing a smart pair of slacks and sensible yet stylish shoes.

What to Wear
There are some tried-and-true rules for interview attire. To make the most of that first glance, keep these tips in mind:

• Choose appropriate clothing in a flattering color and cut.
• Wear appropriate hosiery, no matter how tanned your legs are.
• Avoid very high heels and make sure your shoes match your clothing.
• Wear your hair in a professional and flattering style.
• Keep your nails clean and trimmed. If you use polish, make it a pale color.

What to Avoid
Just as there are certain things you should always do to ace that first impression, there are quite a few things you should not wear during the big interview:

• Big, clunky jewelry. Keep the attention on you instead! A single pair of earrings is sufficient. Wearing your wedding band and a simple watch is fine, too.
• Heavy makeup. In this case, less is definitely more.
• Rumpled or wrinkled clothing is a big no-no.
• Carrying a purse. Look more professional by carrying a briefcase.
• Short skirts. Make sure your skirt covers your thighs when you sit down.
• Too much perfume or cologne. The last thing you want to do is give your potential employer a headache.
• Stilettos. There is a place and time for everything, and the first interview is not the time nor the place for your sexiest pair of high heels.

Closing the Sale
During the interview, be sure to make eye contact with your potential employer. Shake hands firmly upon greeting and leaving, and don't forget to smile often. Offer quick and witty answers, ask intelligent questions of your own, and finish the interview with a gracious thanks. Make certain they remember you as a professional applicant who looked the part--it will go a long way toward bringing your resume to the top of the pile.