HOW TO DRESS FOR SUCCESS 1

It takes 3 seconds (that’s right) 3 seconds, just a quick glance for someone to evaluate you when you meet for the first time. We form our opinions based on:  Appearance  Body language  Demeanor  Mannerism…………………  AND HOW WE ARE DRESSED 2

These are made in the first thirty (30) seconds of meeting someone: TrustworthinessEconomic Level Educational LevelSocial Position Economic HeritageSocial Heritage Educational HeritageSuccess Moral CharacterFuture Potential Level of Sophistication 3

93% of LASTING impressions come in the first four (4) minutes of a meeting. COMMUNICATION IS:  7% VERBAL  38% TONE OF VOICE  55% APPERANCE 4

 Your smile is the first thing the interviewer sees.  Your clothes are a close second. From the second you meet your interviewer, your appearance and body language are sending cues about the kind of worker you will be.  First Impressions may be far from accurate but you will be fighting an uphill battle to prove otherwise. 5

Research ahead:  Check out the company web site for pictures of the employees, visit ahead and observe the workers in context. Make sure it is not “Casual Friday” when you go.  First impressions influence the way the interviewer perceives all subsequent information about you.  Many companies expect professional attire for interviews even though the dress code is casual. 6

 Business formal requires a suit, plain blouse or shirt and tie, and shoes in a conservative color and style. Ladies that means plain flesh colored hose, also.  Business casual is a more relaxed, yet professional look, i.e. slacks, khakis, button down shirt, sweater.  Avoid: flashy patterns, short skirts, low cut tops and clingy or revealing outfits.  You want the interviewer to focus on your face and voice not be distracted your choice of attire. 7

 No matter how high the temperature rises, the right business clothes still make a strong statement in the workplace.  This also goes for our casual, beach environment.  Just because you will be wearing shorts and golf/t-shirt on the job please do not go in for an application or an interview wearing shorts/board shorts, t-shirts, flip-flops, crocs, tank top, etc. 8

 Freight Inspector : We require a person who is presentable in appearance who is able to represent the company in a professional manner. This is a professional business with lots of growth opportunity.  Property Manager : Must maintain professional appearance and comply with prescribed uniform policy.  Clerical/Medical Billing : Must have business casual attire.  PBX Operator, PC Bch : Must maintain a professional appearance and a cordial attitude towards all guests and staff members. 9

 Limo/ShuttleDrivers : Successful applicants will demonstrate the ability to communicate well with others and the ability to represent the company image with a clean and pleasant appearance.  Fast Food/Krystal Company : hiring for cashiers, ad says, must be clean and very neat in appearance. Hiring for cook: this person must be a very self hygienically aware person. Position has great room for growth. 10

11  Pictured here is of one of our clients getting outfitted for an interview at Catholic Charities.  The manager of the store, Tara Catalano-Smith is very helpful and knowledgeable.  Cindy’s Consignment Shop on 19 th Street is also very helpful And yes! She got the job

 Clothing should be clean and well pressed whether formal or casual.  Shoes need to be polished. Ladies avoid heels higher than 2 ½”.  Underwear is required. That includes a slip and hose if wearing a skirt or dress and socks for men.  Jewelry should be minimal and subtle. Remove piercings.  Be conservative with makeup and avoid perfume. 12

 Hair should be well groomed, not unnaturally colored, spiked or styled in a way that covers or hides your face.  Make sure fingernails are cleaned and trimmed.  Well-brushed teeth and fresh breath are a must.  Never wear anything for an interview that is: sexy; too revealing or too bold; bright or sharply contrasting; too casual; or with a designer’s name or logo showing. 13

Final Note:  Check your attire in a mirror in the bathroom before the interview  Smile  Remember your interviewer’s name  Smile  Take a deep breath, blow it out and  Smile 14