How to Dress for Professional Impressions

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.

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.

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

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

Business Casual Inappropriate... Appropriate!

Business Professional Inappropriate... Appropriate

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

Business Casual for Men Inappropriate Appropriate

Business Professional for Men Inappropriate Appropriate

Business Casual for Women Inappropriate Appropriate

Business Professional for Women Inappropriate Appropriate

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

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

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

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

Review

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

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.

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

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