Dress to Impress

For any interview, no matter the kind of job, it is always a good idea to dress to impress your potential employer. You are marketing the most important product you will ever encounter, yourself.  First impressions can make or break you in an interview.

I remember while working in a retail-clothing store during college, the managers were conducting interviews for a few open positions. Only one out of four applicants were dressed for success, meaning in business/casual attire, the other three applicants were wearing dirty jeans and rip shirts. They were not hired based on the impression they gave by their attire on the day of their interview.

Dressing for success doesn’t always mean suit and tie, but making sure that you know the environment you are entering is a good start. If you were interviewing for a job in a corporate setting, then a suit would definitely be the most appropriate. If you are interviewing for a more casual job, a retail store for example, a pair of dress pants and fashionable yet appropriate top would work best.

As for hair and makeup: Less is more. It has been my impression that yes you would need to look presentable, but too much makeup can make it look like you are trying too hard. You definitely want to look fresh and clean. I always try to make my eyes pop, so I actually use those eye color specific shadows that CoverGirl and Almay sell, but that is just me, other people may like to go the natural route. Hair doesn’t have to be an updo done by a professional, but it should be nice and neat.

When you get the call to schedule an interview, your qualifications got you in, but you land the job based on that impression you give during your interview.  


Good Luck!


-K