Proper Attire For An Interview

With the economy the way it is; the job market is getting tough. For every job available there are at least twenty-five people vying for that one position. In the town I live in there are fifty applicants for each job. In my years of experience I have learned that the first impression is crucial in an interview. In everyday life it is good to be original and be yourself. Unfortunately, when we are applying for a job we have to conform to some degree depending on the job we are applying for.

The goal is for the interviewer to focus on what we have to say and not be distracted by what we are wearing.  We are basically trying to sell ourselves to a potential employer.

When interviewing, we need to dress professionally. What does this mean? In most cases Men and women should wear a suit if possible. Solid colors are best. Navy, grey or black are good conservative colors. When wearing a pant suit having the same color socks as the pants is a good idea. While it might be fun to have a little flare with the socks (Bright colors, or fun patterns) ought be saved for when you have gotten to job. When wearing jewelry simple is the best way to go for the interview. Again, once you have the job you can be more at ease. Nails should be trimmed. Avoiding bright nail polish is also a good idea. Be careful not to wear strong perfume or cologne. Even some deodorants can have a strong smell. Too much of any scent is one of the biggest mistake we can make.

Applying for a retail job in clothing? Great! You can see what kind of clothes are sold. It would be a good idea to wear the type of clothes that you would be selling. This can vary greatly depending on the store. If interviewing for a brand name store it is a great idea not to wear a competing retailers items. A good example would be wearing DC® shoes to an interview with a shop that only sells Reebok® shoes. Retail stores can have a great influence on what you would wear. If applying for a job at Hot Topic it would be OK to have piercings, tattoos, and ripped jeans. Not a good idea for a similar interview at Macy's.

A good Idea for any retail stores is to go and see what current employees are wearing. 

In most cases for fast food restaurants, there are uniforms that must be worn. It is fine to wear business casual to an interview. A nice clean pair of pants  and shirt are appropriate. There should be no stains, rips or holes. Wearing a T-shirt with any kind saying or picture is not a good idea. Your idea of a funny saying may not be the same as the interviewer. Again, first impressions are the most important. 

The wearing of any type of hat is a big no-no.

Heavy make-up and lipstick need also be avoided.

Leave you cell in the car or turn it off and put it where the interviewer can not see it.

If you have tattoos, consider covering them up. A potential employer may make an unfair judgement about your abilities or personality based on the number or style of your tattoos.

Take a good look at yourself. Make sure your shirt is tucked in (if is supposed to be). See if you need to comb your hair. Spit out any gum or hard candy. If you have hard candy, check to make sure it did not discolor your tongue. A breath mint may be a good idea. Take a deep breath, be confident, and go get that Job.

GOOD LUCK!