You have probably heard the phrase “dress for success.”  Well, you are going to want to dress for success when you go on a job interview as this is your first and only time to make a good impression with your prospective management and team.

How do you dress for success?  Here are some pointers on how to make a good impression with your dress style during a job interview:

1. Wear a suit

Wear a suit with heels and stockings. You should look very business-like and professional. You probably will not be wearing a suit when you go to work on a daily basis, as most offices have adopted the business casual look, but you will want to wear a suit for the interview. Wearing a suit will show the interviewer that you care enough about getting the job to get dressed up. But, Marla, suits are expensive! I get it. Take time and invest in a good “interview suit.” I have two suits I only wear for interviewing purposes. I always keep in mind that I am dressing for the future me, and you should too. 

2. Eliminate perfumes

You do not want people to smell you coming a mile away even if it is an expensive fragrance. Minimize your use of perfume when you go for a job interview. Too much perfume is distracting and will end up being a distraction for your prospective boss (who may even be disturbed by this.) Some people are allergic, and you don’t want to take that chance. Both men and women are guilty of wearing too much cologne/perfume at times so go easy on the scent. Avoid scented hand sanitizers and lotions as well; their scent can be too strong. By the way, you don’t want to smell bad either. Make sure that you are well-groomed and washed for your job interview.  

3. Go easy on the make up

Women should go easy on make up as well as elaborate hair styles. Women who wear too much makeup to a job interview can come across as unprofessional. This does not mean that you have to look like a plain Jane either (unless you don’t wear make up). You can look good with little to no make up. You can wear your hair pulled back without having it in a severe messy bun on top of your head. While you want to look attractive, you want to tone down an elaborate appearance. Simply be yourself.

4. Go easy on the jewelry and accessories 

If you are like me, you love costume jewelry. However, elaborate costume jewelry is not ideal for interviews. It can be distracting. Costume jewelry and accessories include rings, necklaces, head pieces/bands, earrings, bracelets, scarfs, and shawls. I am not saying you can’t wear these items, but make sure they match your attire and flow well with your whole ensemble. 

5. Clean and presentable shoes

You would be surprised at how many people will notice your shoes. Many interviewers will look you in your eyes first as they shake your hand, then look at you from your head to your toes-so shoes matter. A low-heel is preferable; two inches, not 3-5 inches. Stay away from sandals, shoes with no back, open-toed shoes, and wedge heels. Shoes should be conservative in nature and in sync with your ensemble.   

All of your clothes should be free from stains and holes.  Always dress for success even if you have to buy clothes at a second-hand shop in order to look good for the job interview. (This is not a bad idea); thrift stores have many hidden gems). Go easy on accessories, makeup, and cologne, and dress like you are a professional.  

What other interview tips do you have?

Please share…

Check out the Working Woman Video Series to accompany this post.

Keep winning and creating harmony in your life.

Marla J. Albertie

Your Life Harmonizing Strategist