How To Dress For An Interview

An interview is your chance, to make a perfect first impression. The moment you walk in, you should look like you fit in. The way you dress, is the way you'll be remembered, the way you say 'where do I sign, I'm perfect for this job.'

Research the Workplace

Before rocking up to an interview, you find out as much information about the business as possible. This rule applies for interview attire as well. When someone is interviewing possible job candidates, they want to know whether you'd suit their workplace environment. If you are dressed like one of their employees, then you've already helped tick that mental checkbox. You are saying to your future employer, 'I belong here, I fit in.' Quite often the invitation to interview will detail the expected dress code. This can range anywhere from neat casual, to formal business attire. I've explained the main terms below.

Dress Codes

Neat Casual

Nice casual shoes, jeans and a print tee. This dress code is appropriate for casual retail positions or school age jobs where formalwear is not specified.

Smart Casual Dress shoes, dark jeans, formal belt and dress shirt. This dress code is appropriate for most job interviews below corporate level. You will look well presented, and more relaxed than business attire.

Corporate

Dress shoes, dress pants, dark formal belt, dress shirt, suit and tie. This dress code is the typical interview attire standard post university. Make sure you wear a nice plain tie and shine your shoes before leaving the house. If possible wear a nice blue or red tie to add some colour.

Unspecified/Business Attire

A lot of invitations for interview will not specify a dress code. When in doubt, wear dress shoes, dress pants, formal belt, white (or light blue) dress shirt and a black tie. This look is quite smart and neutral, whilst not appearing overdressed.

Pre-Interview Checklist

- Iron your clothes. Attention to detail is critical in an interview. - Shine your shoes and wear appropriate socks. Black dress shoes, go with black dress socks.

- Wear a coloured tie. Opt for a blue, purple or red tie if available. A black tie is nice but won't stand out amongst your competitors. - Style your hair! If you are dressed up nicely, without having done your hair, then you're only 70% ready. Use my hairstyling section for more help here.

Best of luck with your upcoming interviews! If you have any specific questions use the Contact page to message me directly.