Dressing For Interviews

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While the college campus may be the perfect place in which to exhibit your flair for the latest in fashion style, the interview is not the place to do so. With very few unusual exceptions (apologies to Apple Computer), jeans, t-shirts, and sweatshirts are out. Unfortunately, many college grads are under prepared when it comes to proper interview dress. They feel they can "get by" with what is already in their wardrobe, which is usually not the case. This is not to say that you need to go out and buy a whole new wardrobe. Go for quality over quantity. One or two well-chosen business suits will serve you all the way to the first day on the job and beyond. For now, no one will fault you for wearing the same sharp outfit each time you interview.

Men and Women

  • Conservative two-piece business suit (solid dark blue or gray is best)
  • Conservative long-sleeved shirt/blouse (white is best, pastel is next best)
  • Clean, polished conservative shoes
  • Well-groomed hairstyle
  • Clean, trimmed fingernails
  • Minimal cologne or perfume
  • Empty pockets--no bulges or tinkling coins
  • No gum, candy or cigarettes
  • Light briefcase or portfolio case
  • No visible body piercing (nose rings, eyebrow rings, etc)

Men

  • Necktie should be silk with a conservative pattern How to Tie a Necktie
  • Dark shoes (black lace-ups are best)
  • Dark socks (black is best)
  • Get a haircut; short hair always fares best in interviews
  • No beards
  • Mustaches are a possible negative, but if you must, make sure it is neat and trimmed
  • No rings other than wedding ring or college ring
  • No earrings (if you normally wear one, take it out)

Women

  • Always wear a suit with a jacket; no dresses
  • No high heels
  • Conservative hosiery at or near skin color (and no runs!)
  • No purses, small or large; carry a briefcase instead
  • If you wear nail polish (not required), use clear or a conservative color
  • Minimal use of makeup (it should not be too noticeable)
  • No more than one ring on each hand

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