Professional attire

“Dress for success” One of the most overused phrases in job- hunting Also one of the most underutilized by job- seekers Students especially are common under-dressers! You should even try dressing for success at school rather than breaking the dress code daily!

You are marketing a product: YOU The FIRST thing an employer sees in greeting you is your attire Dressing properly will not get you the job, but it could PREVENT you from being considered. This is a good example of BAD attire!

Inappropriate attire Mini skirts Plunging necklines Skin-baring tops Tight clothing Stilettos Denim Sweats Sneakers or athletic shoes Spaghetti straps T-shirts

What to wear? Dressing conservatively is always the safest route You do not have to spend a lot of money, but you should have at least two professional sets of attire

Preparing for dressing for success Wear clean and polished conservative dress shoes (no flip flops or running shoes) Have a clean, well-groomed hairstyle Have clean and trimmed fingernails Wear minimal cologne or perfume Wear light makeup, rather than heavy

Interview attire, girls Standard: ◦Always wear a jacket. ◦A dark navy or gray skirted suit is preferred. Beige or brown are acceptable. ◦Skirt length should be at the knee or below, never shorter than the knee. ◦Avoid tops that are frilly, sheer, or low-cut ◦Avoid wearing a dress unless it has a jacket

Interview attire, guys Standard ◦Wear a conservative dark navy or gray two-piece business suit, OR a conservative sports coat with nicely pressed dress slacks ◦White long-sleeved button-down dress shirt ◦A conservative silk tie ◦Nicely polished dress shoes ◦Your belt should always match your shoes ◦Trimmed facial hair if you have a beard or mustache

Key Wardrobe Work Pieces ◦Black skirt and white blouse/shirt are workplace essentials ◦Cardigan, jacket ◦Dress pants ◦Scarves ◦Handbags ◦Coat or classic trench for cooler weather

Preparing for dressing for success No visible body piercing beyond conservative ear piercings for women No visible tatoos Have well-brushed teeth and fresh breath Do not chew gum or candy Wear minimal jewelry

With … Cover letters – it’s the opening paragraph and a quick scan of your qualifications. Resumes – it’s a quick scan of your accomplishments With an interview – it’s how you’re dressed that sets the tone

Create a strong, positive image