Interview Outfit & Career Goals: How To Dress For Interviews?
Turns out graduating from college was the easy part – now you actually have to land that job you’ve been training for over the past 4 (plus) years. Selling yourself on paper to an employer who doesn’t yet know the glory that is you is hard. Convincing them in an interview that you are the only choice for the job is harder. Stack the deck of valuable first impressions in your favor with an on-point interview outfit that will not only impress but, honestly, leave them wondering how they even made it this far without you.
RESEARCH IS KEY
First thing’s first – do your homework on your interview outfit. Dig around on the company’s website, Facebook or other social media accounts to get a sense of how their employees dress on a day to day (or if they’re holding “Help Me” signs). If word on the street is that the company has a laid-back dress policy, don’t be that girl who shows up wearing a charcoal suit and pearls.
Find a modern but pulled-together look that will make you stand out from the pack. Just remember to leave your jeans out of the equation when planning that perfect outfit. They may have a giant Connect Four and ping-pong table in the break room but it’s still a business where they expect their well-rested (and less-stressed) employees to be professional.
What to Wear to a Startup or Tech Job Interview
These are two sectors that are known for having more of a relaxed dress code at the office so business casual is a good bet for this interview outfit. A crisp collared shirt with your favorite tailored pant or pencil skirt is a solid choice to impress the higher-ups. Give your power outfit a punch with a pair of trendy shoes and you’ll be accepting that corner office offer by lunch.
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THE SIMPLE TRUTH
Ok, ladies, here’s the truth. Job interviews aren’t long. And on top of that, they’re being conducted by someone who is less likely to assess how well you’ll fit in to the role and more so looking for reasons as to why you won’t be a good fit for the office. So here’s a pro-tip: keep your interview outfit stylish but simple so that they have no choice but to focus on what you have to say instead of being distracted by what you’re wearing.
What to Wear When Interviewing for a Creative Position
Let your ideas be the most flashy thing about you and keep your attire subtle and monotone. Consider a simple black sheath with a blazer and heels. It’s ok to include a pop of color but nothing too bright or sparkly. Remember, you want them to be in awe of you – not distracted by your wardrobe.
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KEEP IT CLEAN
A clean and polished interview outfit is just as important in an interview as it is on the job. You don’t want to give the impression that you are someone who doesn’t prepare or think things through. Complete your look with subtle accessories and minimal makeup to elevate your outfit to the next level. Bonus points for perfecting that firm handshake of yours with well-manicured nails.
What to Wear to a Corporate Office Interview
The traditional corporate world is pretty black (suits) and white (blouse) when it comes to dress code. Invest in a well-tailored suit to make the best impression at this interview. When choosing the right button down, consider veering from the expected white and opt for a color that conveys the role you’re interviewing for. For example, blue is the color of calm and relaxation – two great qualities for a team player. Green, however, is a power shade that exudes authority – so if you’re interviewing to be the new boss then this might be the look you’re after.
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DON’T BE AFRAID TO SPEAK UP
If you’re truly stumped on how to dress for your meet and greet then it’s totally appropriate to ask the hiring manager what they expect you to wear. Some interview outfits are less formal than others and, depending on the position, your interview may require a quick visit to the program site. The last thing you want to do is show up looking like you don’t understand what type of work and dedication this role will require from you. Plus, you don’t want to be known as the applicant who got her too-fancy-heels stuck in the mud.
What to Wear to a Non-Profit Interview
Though some are more formal than others in their attire, a business casual preppy look is usually a good bet for this line of work. A shift dress with black jacket and comfortable (but cute) shoes is a good look to consider. Or go more formal with black pants and a solid blouse. Either way you’ll let them know that you don’t need to sacrifice style for hard work.
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YOU DO YOU
The most important thing to keep in mind when interviewing for your dream job is to stay true to yourself. Sure, landing the perfect job may take a little prep work (not to mention a few credit card payments) but you should never feel like you have to change who you are to land the gig. Dress your best self on the outside and we’re sure the passion you feel for your profession will shine from the inside. And, if you ask us, that is the best way to make a first impression.
Interview outfit inspiration:
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xoxo
