Are You Making the Right First Impression? What to Wear to an Interview

They say you only have one chance at making a great first impression - whoever “they” are, that is. So are you dressing for success when you meet a potential future employer for an interview? What exactly is dressing for success? Here are a few tips from your fellow Jaycees that will help you look the part at your next interview.

Stick to the classics. If you are unsure of the work environment at the place you are interviewing, keep it basic with items like slacks or a pencil skirt, a button up shirt and a blazer for the ladies; men should either wear a sports coat and slacks or stick to a suit. Either way, we recommend donning a tie. It’s never bad to be overdressed, but you can make the wrong impression by underdressing.

Dress for comfort. You can wear the most gorgeous heels, but if you can’t walk in them your interviewers will sense your lack of confidence. Men, if your suit jackets are too tight, it might inhibit you from making a proper handshake. The easiest way to solve this dilemma is to do a wardrobe practice run—get dressed in your interview attire, see how it feels and adjust if necessary.

Remember to have personality. Just because we said to stick to the classics doesn’t mean you can’t show off the real you. Don a brightly colored oxford shirt or a vibrant one to standout from the crowd. Men: don’t be afraid to sport your fashion forward oversized watch or even some colorful argyle socks. (They may go unnoticed, but they‘re fun regardless.)

When it comes to choosing the right clothing for your next interview, just remember to keep it simple, comfortable and don’t be afraid to express yourself within reason. Do you have any go-to pieces that you wear when you are interviewing? Visit our Facebook  and Twitter pages to share your apparel advice with us.