Don’t always judge a book by its cover, that’s true. But when it comes to job interviews, the way you present yourself has a direct impact on how the interviewer perceives you. Whether you’re conducting an in-person or online interview, dressing to impress will show the hiring manager that you’re genuinely interested in the position. Additionally, it demonstrates to the hiring manager that you value their time during your interview. To help you feel confident in your interview, here’s how to wear for an interview.
How To Wear For An Interview
It’s not always necessary to wear the same outfit to work every day when you go for a job interview. It’s unlikely that the invitation will specify what to dress, though. How to wear for an interview?
Consider Organizational Culture
The first step on how to wear for an interview is to start by investigating the business. For information about the company’s culture, see the company’s website. Chances are you should wear a suit to an interview even if you only find archival photos, as long as they’re all people in business suits.
Don’t stop there though. You should use social media to research a company. Examine the online personas of the business on its website and in its social media channels. You can use this tool to determine which types of clothing are worn more often to identify determine how to wear for an interview.
Observing what is posted on business websites and social media is only part of the solution. Even if everyone is wearing shorts and tank tops, shorts and t-shirts are not appropriate for a job interview. For the interview and the first few days, weeks, or even months on the job, Capozzoli recommends dressing more professionally.
No matter how you research the company, the outfit you choose for your job interview will ultimately fall into one of three categories: professional, business, or casual.
Dress Professionally For An Interview
Of course in terms of how to wear for an interview, professional attire requires being ready for work rather than a day at the beach. However, professional attire denotes a more formal or casual outfit for an interview. In many businesses, formal or professional attire used to be the norm, but that is no longer the case. However, professional attire is still required during the interview and then in some fields (such as finance or law).
Your best bet is to dress politely, usually in a suit (pants or skirt) in a solid color like navy, gray, or black. The white or soft color that matches the suit should be the color of your shirt (think light blue or light pink, not dark pink or deep purple). As a rule of thumb, take the following into account:
- A tie that matches and compliments the outfit
- Leather belt
- Neutral or dark pantyhose
- Work shoes (not loafers or sandals)
- Small jewelry (nothing big, dangling, or stacked)
Casual Interview Outfit
despite the fact that today it is more common in the workplace. However, if your research shows that business casual attire is appropriate for an interview, then you’ll need to understand what that has to do with how to wear for an interview.
Jeans and khakis are appropriate interview attire. Even if others can wear shorts, you’re better off waiting to wear yours to work until you secure that spot. As long as you can sit comfortably in the dress, that’s fine.
Almost everything is acceptable in terms of tops. Long or short sleeves are acceptable, however, you may want to avoid wearing blazers or tank tops. All colors and designs are allowed even vibrant or louder ones. Also, if the shirt’s graphics don’t contain any objectionable material, they may be acceptable when you’re thinking about how to wear for an interview.
Boots and sandals (without socks) are examples of footwear. Slip-on is acceptable both with and without socks. While you may feel most comfortable wearing flip-flops or sneakers, it’s a good idea to wait until you’re done with your work before wearing them.
Casual Office Attire For An Interview
Khaki pants and polo shirts are often the first things that come to mind when you think of business attire. But there is no one size fits all concept of normal business. It can be a strict “no jeans” policy for a company. Others may have a “jeans okay, but not shorts” policy. As for how to wear for an interview, you’ll have several options when choosing what to wear for a job interview if your research leads you to believe that the organization is business casual.
It’s best to wear dark pants like khaki. You can wear patterned pants as long as the pattern is subtle (think plaid, not geometric). Dark-colored jeans may be appropriate. However, it is generally wiser to be cautious and avoid denim when choosing interview attire.
Everyone can wear long-sleeve, button-down shirts of the same color. Outside of the shirt, you can also wear a great sweater, wool vest, or casual blazer. Polo shirts can also be considered “too casual” in an interview, even if they may be acceptable when you get the job.
Here are some how to wear for an interview for casual business attire:
- Optional ties are allowed if worn.
- Closed-toe shoes go well with a pair of dark socks (sneakers do, but sandals or sneakers don’t)
- Although there are other colors like black, white, gray, and navy, avoid precious jewelry tones and choose bright or pale colors.
- Simple jewelry (can be layered or worn as more than one as long as it’s not large or offensive)
Comfortable Confident
About how to wear for an interview whatever outfit you choose for a job interview should be comfortable and make you feel good about yourself. While you may not like wearing a suit, if you must go to an interview, choose one in color and cut that works for you. You should also try it on to make sure it’s comfortable.
Is there anything jab or dig in when you sit down? Can you breathe? Are your arms easy to extend? Are any items going up? Sit in a chair for 10 to 15 minutes while acting as if you are shaking someone’s hand while wearing interview attire. Bring your own clothes to change if something bothers you, or think about wearing something else.
Check your shoes as well, don’t forget! You can walk a lot, especially if it’s a face-to-face interview, both in and out of the interview, or around the company if they invite you to tour. Take your shoes for a walk around the block to put them on and make sure they fit properly if you don’t want to rub against blisters or feel uncomfortable every time you move.
What To Avoid Wearing During A Job Interview
Even if how to wear for an interview is important, what you don’t wear is just as important.
Make sure your interview attire is clean and free of wrinkles. Remove any stains by ironing. Also, take the time to pick it up before the interview and take it to the laundromat once with a professional.
Make sure your clothes fit you well and that it gives you confidence in addition to comfort. While a loose belt can feel comfortable, the interviewer won’t think well of you wearing a belt. Any necessary adjustments should be made.
For how to wear for an interview, you should avoid wearing scented lotions, lotions, or aftershaves. If you overwhelm the interviewer with perfume, they may be sensitive to the scent and mistakenly remember you.
It’s best to avoid wearing flashy or distracting designs. Bright colors are acceptable, but limited to one color, and pair it with a neutral color (for example, a black vest with a red shirt or tie). Patterns can be combined as long as they are not overwhelming or distracting. Also, be careful when choosing patterns for your Zoom interview attire as some patterns look weird on camera.
Whether you’re answering questions in an in-person or online interview, you should wear neutral-colored clothing and accessories. You don’t have to hide your style, but remember that your skills, not your looks, are the main attraction.
Conclusion
These are important things to keep in mind when wondering about how to wear for an interview. Wish you will get a good job and pass the interview.
