Job Interview Dress Code
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| The most common mistake was dressing inappropriately! Hiring managers complained that candidates did not dress in a professional manner. With this in mind it is better to play it safe at job interviews and wear clothing that is generally accepted as business-like. |
For women the standard for professional workwear is a business suit, a jacket and smart pants or a dress and jacket. The number one mistake made by female candidates in job interviews is looking too sexy. Cleavages, too-short and too-tight skirts, tight tops, visible bras and heels that are too high were all mentioned as job interview dress code mistakes.
For men the standard is still a classic business suit, a white or neutral colored dress shirt and a conservative tie. Interview dress mistakes include wearing comedy ties, badly ironed shirts and not shaving.
Job seekers were also penalized for wearing bright and trendy colors with 70% of employers saying they do not consider high fashion to be appropriate for a job interview. Over 80 percent of employers said that wearing a suit to the job interview creates the impression of an organized and efficient candidate.
The right job interview dress code varies vary according to the type of job and organization you are interviewing for. Lets look at some different job types and what would be considered appropriate interview attire.
Sales Jobs
The preference is for male candidates to wear a suit and tie. However for a very junior or entry level sales position hiring managers will accept smart pants and a co-ordinating jacket. For women a skirted suit or pantsuit or tailored dresses are considered appropriate. When choosing a color to wear consider the following. Dark blue projects an image of being calm and in control, of dependability and loyalty (note how many uniforms are blue). Gray sends the message of wisdom, dignity and practicality. Brown is associated with friendliness and wholesomeness - a connection with the earth. Black is seen as representing authority and power. Black can sometimes look sombre and be overwhelming so lighten the overall look with an appropriate light colored shirt. Get help with your sales job interview at The Sales Interview Guide.
Manager and Finance Jobs
A classic dark suit and low key tie is required for men while business suits and dresses and jackets remain the standard for female candidates. Women should wear shoes with conservative heels and hosiery at or near skin color. Shoes that are darker or the same color as the skirt make a candidate appear solid and grounded, shoes that are lighter than an outfit can make a candidate look insubstantial. Men should opt for dark, polished conservative shoes with dark socks. White shirts are always a good option. White sends the message of precision and decency.
Teaching Jobs
An elementary or primary school teacher should appear both approachable and professional. Each district may have different interview dress expectations but a safe bet for female candidates would be to wear a formal blouse paired with smart pants or skirt rather than a formal business suit. A business suit is more appropriate for a secondary or middle school teaching interview. Dress codes are more stringent at this level. What interview questions can you expect in your teaching interview? Find out at About the Teacher Interview.
Factory and Trades
Depending on the level of the job, appropriate job interview dress code for an interview in the trades can fall into the business casual category. To find out what business casual interview attire means go to Interview Clothes.
How to find out the company Job Interview Dress Code.
Use the Job Interview Guide for the specific job you are interviewing for.
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Take time to think about what you are going to wear to your job interview. Make sure your clothes are well pressed, clean and neat.
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