Resources

Everyone's Crazy 'bout a Sharp-Dressed...

Experienced interviewers have a reasonable idea within the first 2 MINUTES of meeting you whether or not they will hire you.

First impressions do count!! Practice your handshake (be firm but not brutal) & abide by the following "Dress for Success" guidelines, and you will have a good start at making a great first impression...

Dress for Success - MEN

When choosing a suit

• colors in shades of gray and/or navy - muted plaids and subtle accent stripes are acceptable
• single breasted suit is a more classic look
• wear a suit, not a sport coat with slacks
• when you are not sure how to dress - go conservative

Always have shirts professionally laundered before an interview

• neatness always counts and shows attention to detail
• a starched LONG SLEEVED white shirt gives a more professional look than a colored shirt

Invest in an updated silk tie

• ties of less than 3 inches wide are appropriate
• tip of tie should barely touch belt buckle
• tasteful but not aggressive - the smaller the pattern, the more authority you will project

Belts are a good investment

• choose black and burgundy
• should match shoes

Wear nice shined leather shoes

• wingtips portray a more conservative look while tassel loafers give a more casual look
• matching dark socks are a must!

Wear jewelry in moderation

• at most 1 ring on each hand - wedding or class ring
• do not wear an inexpensive watch - black leather or metal band is best
• no earrings, bracelets or necklaces

Other accessories can enhance the overall look

• socks should be mid-calf
• invest in a good quality (professional looking) pen
• briefcase, portfolio and wallet should also be quality investments
• accessories will assist others in forming an opinion about you

Grooming must be impeccable

• freshly shaven
• clipped fingernails
• hair freshly cut in good taste - should not be past the base of neck
• cleanliness is a must - no questions asked

Dress for Success - WOMEN

When choosing a suit

• colors in shades of navy, gray, taupe, black, and deep maroon
• miniskirts are not appropriate in the workplace - calf-length is recommended
• invest in quality, not quantity - will last if you care for them and can add accessories
• when you are not sure how to dress - go conservative
• wear a skirted-suit

If you are wearing a blouse with the suit, choose one that will have an impact on your look

• solid colors are the wisest investment - white, off-white, beige and light blue are good
• cotton and silk fabrics are the best
• choose blouses of good quality without frills or lace

Wear simple classic looking heels

• should be a closed heel and toe
• approximately 3 inches in height or shorter
• recommended colors - black, navy, taupe, cordovan
• choose leather over those made of synthetic material - will convey a richer appearance

Invest in a few nice pairs of nylons

• always wear nylons, never tights, knee-highs, etc.
• no patterns or fashion colors - flesh tone is most conservative

Jewelry should be worn in moderation

• only 1 ring on each hand
• do not wear an inexpensive watch - should be a good classic one
• earrings, bracelets or necklaces in 14 karat gold or sterling silver
• simplicity is the key
• should accentuate your professional attire - not detract from it

Other accessories can enhance the overall look

• briefcase and/or portfolio should be quality leather investments - black or tan
• can carry a purse along with a briefcase, however suggest only carrying the briefcase
• accessories will assist others in forming an opinion about you

Grooming must be impeccable

• makeup should be natural - use to enhance features
• hair should be your natural color - if not, beware of off-colored or contrasting roots
• shoulder length or shorter is better - if longer, pull it back
• nails should be well manicured - clear polish is best
• go for the professional look, not glamour

After the Interview:

After the interview, be sure to keep a record of the name and title of the person you interviewed with, along with names and titles of anyone else you may have met. Ideally, you'll have collected their business cards. This will not only help you remember whom you interviewed with but will also assist you when you write your Thank You notes!