Looking for a job can be a stressful time, spending hours browsing job websites and apps and submitting CVs to anything that sounds like it might be a good fit. However, perhaps more stressful is the preparation for job interviews which often scheduled with short notice and come around quickly leaving you with little time to decide on what you should wear. CT shirts, retailers of menswear and suits, gives us some advice:
Casual
Sectors that find casual clothes acceptable are the charity sector or if you are applying for an unpaid internship; they won’t expect you to be formally dressed and will be more interested in personality, including your punctuality. It is always good to make a positive first impression, so it’s best to put in some sort of effort!
Women
For a casual interview, you can wear something comfortable like a favourite skirt or jeans. Ensure you are still looking presentable by avoiding skirts that are too short or ripped jeans. A nice dress accompanied by a cardigan would work nicely or if you prefer trousers try a shirt-jumper combo with a smart pair of slacks or jeans. Don’t worry too much about footwear; smart ankle boot or flat pump will do, however, it might be best to avoid trainers and high heels.
Men
For men it can sometimes it can be tricky to dress casually without looking underdressed; yes jeans are appropriate but avoid any tatty or ripped pairs. Sportswear should be avoided, particularly jogging trousers or tracksuit tops as this may not give a positive first impression. Instead, opt for a long-sleeved top matched with nice jeans and choose Chelsea boots or brogues for the feet. Finish off the look with a smart jacket.
Business casual
I am lucky that working in the digital media sector has allowed some flexibility on dress code and usually business casual will do, some interviewers may even specify smart or business casual on the invitation due to an office dress code or for a more comfortable assessment day. If you’re not sure what smart casual actually means it’s best to dress too formally than too casually.
Women
Business casual for women is very flexible, choose a conservative style or something more fashion-forward, and is less strict than a full-on professional attire; try to pick pieces that appear elegant but are also comfortable. Choose smart dress trousers (perhaps pinstriped or patterned for a bit of personality) with a nice tucked in shirt, this seasons’ dress combined with smart shoes and a blazer or a smart shirt with a wide collar underneath a long-sleeved sweater. Alternatively, keep garments simple and add a dash of colour with accessories.
Men
A smart casual interview usually calls for a smart fitted men’s shirt. It may be worth investing in some non-iron shirts to avoid creases and you won’t need to worry about getting it ironed before your interview. Team your shirt with some smart trousers, a jumper and some clean and shiny shoes for a professional but casual look. It is best to avoid wearing a polo shirt as this can be considered too casual and steer clear of wearing jeans.
Professional
Time to get suited and booted! For formal interviews, you should adopt a professional look. Keep in mind that you may be being interviewed by the Directors of the company and you will want to look your best as appearance certainly counts at this level. A survey conducted by TheLadders.co.uk management careers company found for senior male and female executives conducting interviews 37% had decided against hiring a candidate due to the way they were dressed.
Women
At the professional level, it is all about the suit including for women. Choose between a knee-length skirt (making sure it does not ride up and become too revealing) or tailored trousers. A suit need not be a boring outfit, find one that is tailored to best suit your shape. If you are confident wearing heels then wear them, however, if you’re a bit wobbly choose pumps or something with a smaller heel. Avoid wearing too much perfume, jewellery or makeup.
Men
Choose a tailored suit that you feel represents your style, a slim leg may be best suited for you and your shape for a professional interview. A tailored navy single-breasted suit teamed with a white or blue long-sleeved shirt and low-key tie seems to be a popular option if you want to leave a positive impression. Consider your feet; wear dark socks will blend in with your outfit and opt for black leather shoes and a briefcase to look professional. Brogues are a good choice being both stylish and smart without being mundane. Avoid wearing too much aftershave!
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