You did it. All the spell checking and re-wording you did on your applications paid off and you got called in for a job interview!
It’s prep time. You’ve heard all about researching the company and you’ve been practicing common interview questions and answers so you’ll be prepared for your time to shine. But, have you thought about what you should be wearing? You may be as prepared as possible and as qualified as they are looking for, but how you dress yourself really says a lot about you to employers and it can make a difference in your interview.
Here are a few quick rules on how to plan your interview outfit:
1) No jeans - You’ve probably been told this before, but it’s very important. It doesn’t matter how casual the work environment is, stay away from the denim. Stick to khakis, skirts and slacks. These make you look like you’re taking the interview seriously, while jeans can be a big turn off.
2) No wrinkles – Let’s face it, no one likes to iron. I’m one of the people who will run their clothes in a dryer five times instead of simply ironing once. Don’t get lazy when it comes to your job interview. Nothing says, “I don’t care what you think about me”, like a wrinkled shirt.
3) Hats off - While you may be really proud of your new limited edition cap, I can promise you that your interviewer will not care. Again, this goes back to looking like you don’t care. If you can’t take the time to take your hat off before an interview, it comes across that you aren’t very serious about the interview itself.
4) Remove all distractions - Tattoos, facial piercings and the amazing Mohawk you just spent hours perfecting can really be a distraction in an interview. Take out the piercings, cover up visible tattoos and make your hair look as professional as possible. You want the interviewer to concentrate on you and why you would make a great fit, you don’t want him or her thinking about what the meaning is behind your new nose piercing.
5) Keep it classy – We know you’ve worked really hard on buffing up your arms for your upcoming spring break trip, but your interviewer does not need to see that. Don’t show a lot of skin. I’m talking to both males and females here. This goes back to distracting the employer. You want to look professional and avoid making them uncomfortable.
While we go into detail about what you should and shouldn’t be wearing in other articles, make sure you follow these five golden interview-outfit rules. This is your chance to show them why hiring you is a great decision. What you wear can distract from your awesome-ness and may not convince the employer that you are the way to go.
Looking for examples of what to wear? Check out our Pinterest page! Have any questions about what you should wear? Ask below!
About Kim Costa
I have an interveiw at McDonalds, what would be appropriate to wear?
Hi Alishia! Check out these examples: http://pinterest.com/snagajob/interview-outfits-for-women/ and stick to the more casual looks on there. This is exciting! Good luck and please let me know how it goes
Thank you so much. I was really afraid of over doing it. I will tell you how the interview goes.
Clean dress slacks, dress shirt and dress shoes !
i like u i love you Kim Costa says
Absolutely no cleavage. No mini-skirts. No black bras under white blouses.
Kim Costa, my name Calvin Jones and i’m 49 yrs old. It’s seem very hard for me to find a job. For one i do not have a High School Diploma or GED. I currently working for a security company i just need a second job to make end meet a provide for my family. I want to know 1: is it my age or 2: is it because i do not have my High School Diploma. Most jobs i apply for do not ask for it. What sure i do now.
i like you About kim costa
i don’t own even a pair of slack’s,blue jeans is all i v’e wore for the last 43plus yr’s in the trking ind. an the job i’m looking to get is a hand’s on saftey man ,you don’t carwl a round under trk’s trl’s in slack’s,what do you say?
When in doubt you could always show up dressed for the job you are applying for. Go ahead and research the position. Be knowledgeable. Hi, im ready to start working today
What would you wear for a security guard position at a hospital? Thanks!
Hi Beth! When is your interview? Keep it professional and follow the tips in the above article and you should be good to go
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Alishia, good advice from everyone with the above suggestions on clothing. Always remember to have clean hair and clean nails. No heavy makeup and minimum jewelry. Less is more. MOST IMPORTANT: Always have eye contact
If you are nervous and stumble, that is fine; just smile and tell the interviewer you are nervous because you would like this job oppurtunity and you are trying to make a good impression. You will do great!
i had a interview yesterday and one lady came in late and with jeans on didn’t even have the decency to take off her jacket
I have a question for the snagajob support team.I’ve read a couple of posts concerning covering up any tattoos during an interview which I totally agree with,but my question to the staff is,do you know if it would be legal for a company to hire you,and then later on they say we have to let you go because of the tattoo,do you think that would be legal or not?