Dress Code: Professional UST College of Science Career Seminar – December 14, 2011 Dress Code: Professional Dress to Impress, Dress for Success MARIA AGNES A. BUQUID, M.A., RGC Counselor University of Santo Tomas

Overview Pretest (First) Impressions Grooming Considerations Dressing for Success For Males For Females Building a Professional Wardrobe on a Budget Posttest Demonstration

Objectives By the end of this session, students will be able to: Describe appropriate clothing to be worn to an interview Understand how first impressions can affect the opinions of others Explain how appearance can be improved by paying attention to dressing for body type and skin tone. Explain how outward appearance can affect internal confidence.

Pretest (True of False) You should wear enough perfume or cologne that the interviewer acknowledges that it is you that smells good___________________ You should not get your hair cut because you are not due______________

Pretest (True of False) Today, it does not matter what you wear to an interview as long as you are comfortable_________________ If you have a body piercing you should leave it in. It is better if the interviewer knows up front that you have one________________ Make-up should be used to hi-light your eyes and lips________________

Impressions Job hunting is all about making the good impressions From your resume, cover letter, initial phone call, walk-in interview and subsequent interviews You will be scrutinized and evaluated

Impressions Conclusions about your professionalism and personality will be drawn MOSTLY based on your physical appearance, mannerisms, communication style, confidence level, and social skills. Whether we like it or not, we will be judged by our appearance.

Impressions Dress and grooming habits are critical factors in getting hired First impressions do matter Overall dress does affect one’s professional success

Impressions Dress and grooming are significant factors in getting hired for a job as well as being considered for advancement within the organization (Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development)

Grooming Considerations Keep hair neat and clean. If needed, get a haircut a week or two before the interview. Select hairstyle that complements your face shape and skin tone. Make sure facial hair is groomed or removed (esp. for males) Use deodorant and avoid perfumes and scents Make sure nails are manicured and appropriately colored if polish is used.

Grooming Considerations minimal jewelry no visible body piercing beyond conservative ear piercing for women no gum, candy, or other objects in your mouth

Clothing for the Interview MALES Shirts should always be long-sleeved and be of solid colors: light blue, cream, white. Shirts must be clean and lightly starched Tuck the shirt in and never roll up the sleeves Tie colors should complement or blend with the overall outfit. Shoes should be well polished and in good condition. Black, brown, burgundy leather shoes work best with business attire.

Sample Business Outfit for Males

Clothing for the Interview MALES Socks need to be dark, complement the suit, and be of calf length so that skin is not revealed when sitting down and crossing legs Accessories such as belts should be selected to complement the shoes being worn. Jewelry should be minimal and typically include only items such as wedding band and watch. No earrings or other facial rings No clothing with messages / images Tattoos should be covered Carry a briefcase instead of a backpack, etc

Sample Accessories for Males

Clothing for the Interview FEMALES Skirt suits are the recommended attire Dresses are acceptable but a matching jacket/blazer is recommended Slacks are acceptable but less appropriate than skirts Blouses in solid colors that complement the skirt is recommended. Avoid blouses with frills and plunging necklines

Clothing for the Interview FEMALES Wear polished, neutral color pumps with a low to medium heel Select accessories that complement the shoes (no more than one ring per hand) A briefcase is preferred to a purse Select make-up that complements your skin tone and features but does not overwhelm. Dark eye shadows should be avoided. Nail polish is in subtle tone such as pale pink or a clear gloss

Sample Outfit for Job Hunting

Sample Outfit for Job Hunting

Sample Outfit for Job Hunting

Sample Outfit for Job Hunting

Sample Outfit for Job Hunting

Sample Outfit for Job Hunting

Sample Outfit for Job Hunting

Sample Outfit for Job Hunting

Sample Outfit for Job Hunting

Sample Outfit for Job Hunting

Sample Outfit for Job Hunting

Sample Outfit for Job Hunting

Sample Outfit for Job Hunting

Sample Outfit for Job Hunting

Can you spot the inappropriate item/s?

Can you spot the inappropriate item/s?

Can you spot the inappropriate item/s?

Can you spot the inappropriate item/s?

Can you spot the inappropriate item/s?

Can you spot the inappropriate item/s?

Can you spot the inappropriate item/s?

Building a Professional Wardrobe on a Budget The Department of Apparel, Merchandising, Design and Textiles at Washington State University makes the following suggestions for dressing professionally on a budget: Don’t wait until the last minute to start looking for the outfits you need to purchase Make sure that your outfits can be mixed and matched to make a variety of outfits Select neutral tones such as black, dark gray, or navy Budget appropriate accessories and shoes into your overall plan.

Building a Professional Wardrobe on a Budget Purchase items that are washable to avoid dry cleaning expenses If travel or commuting may be required for the interview/job, select clothing that is less likely to wrinkle Invest in clothing that is well-made, of durable fabric, and of a classic design that is less likely to go out of style with the next clothing trend Consider thrift shops when necessary. Find someone who can help you select best items for your professional wardrobe.

Posttest (Answer: False) You should wear enough perfume or cologne that the interviewer acknowledges that it is you that smells good___________________ You should not get your hair cut because you are not due______________

Posttest (Answer: False) Today, it does not matter what you wear to an interview as long as you are comfortable_________________ If you have a body piercing you should leave it in. It is better the interviewer know up front that you have one________________ Make-up should be used to hi-light your eyes and lips________________

Thank you and happy shopping!