Preparing for a job interview is not just about writing down frequently asked questions and finding out everything you can about the company you’re applying to.
It is also about presenting yourself in the best possible way. Dressing well and taking care of yourself will increase your chances of being hired for your preferred job. If you’re not sure what to wear to a job interview, this article will be of great use. In this article, you’ll read about what to wear and what not to wear, which will surely help you land the job of your dreams.
Dressing Tips for Men
What you wear always depends on what kind of job you’re applying for. For example, if you’re applying for a job in the construction sector, it’s usually not necessary to dress as business casual as when you would apply for an office job. However, it is always a good idea to dress presentable. We’ll give you a few tips on what to wear to a job interview and how to change it from casual to business casual.
Casual Wear for Men
For job interviews that don’t require you to be well-dressed, such as jobs as a worker in the construction industry, casual wear typically suffices. Men should wear a pair of jeans, with a polo or a blouse that is tucked into the pants. Trainers are normally enough, as long as they are clean. The outfit can be upgraded with a nice leather belt. Dark colours are often the best way to go.
Another important thing is that you take care of your hygiene as well. Get a haircut, and ensure your nose, ears, and nails are clean. Wash your face, trim facial hair or shave thoroughly without cutting yourself. Also, make sure you smell well by showering before the interview and wearing deodorant or a subtle cologne.
Business Casual and Business Wear for Men
This type of clothing is most used for interviews in small and medium-sized organisations, where business wear is preferred, but the setting is more casual than in an international corporation. For men, wearing jeans is okay, but stay clear of ripped or washed-out jeans. Dark blue or black jeans are usually the best colours to go with.
A button-down collared shirt is essential for business casual wear. Choose a short without a print, and wear a white, light blue or beige shirt. Tuck the shirt in your pants and wear a leather belt. Complement your outfit with a pair of laced business casual shoes, of which the colour fits the colour of your belt.
To accessorise, opt for luxury watches, such as the top technology watches from Omega. Leave necklaces and flashy rings (except wedding bands) at home, and bring your documents in a leather briefcase. These accessories will complement your outfit perfectly and take it to the next level. Don’t wear jeans if you want to wear something less casual. Instead, opt for a tailored suit with a buttoned jacket.
Dressing Tips for Women
It is just as important for women to dress appropriately for a job interview. Women get judged more often on their appearance than men. Unfortunately, this is still the case today. This means that in order to land a job, you should dress according to the job you’re applying for.
Whether you are applying for a job as a high-ranked manager or as a worker in the beauty industry, you need to take care of your hygiene and physical appearance. You can do this by getting a manicure, wearing light make-up and making sure your hair is cleaned and styled. This can serve as a base, while the clothing you wear can serve as a great complement.
Casual Wear for Women
If applying for a job in the retail, hospitality, or beauty industry, it’s not always necessary to dress up in business wear. In the case that i-t is not necessary, you should still follow certain dress codes. For example, jeans are okay but don’t wear ripped, stressed, bleached or light-coloured jeans. Skinny jeans are often not acceptable either. Instead, opt for flared, tapered or slim-fit jeans of a dark colour.
Shirt-wise, a blouse is always a good idea. Another kind of top is fine as well, as long as it is not a low-cut, cropped or see-through top. Keep it simple and choose colours that complement your complexion. To figure out what colours suit you, you could have a colour analysis carried out by your local styling salon. Ballerina flats, loafers, and laced shoes are all fine as long as they are clean.
Business Casual and Business Wear for Women
To create a business casual outfit, women should opt for a button-down blouse with a collar and a pair of trousers. Decide on muted colours for the shirt and pair it with a tailored blazer. The blazer should have buttons and should complement the colour of the trousers. Adding a blazer is also a great way of changing a business casual outfit into a less casual outfit. Opt for a slim-fit, flared or straight pair for the trousers.
For women, shoes are an important part of the outfit. A pair of sneakers can break down the essence of the outfit and should be avoided. Instead, go for a pair of heels, but make sure you feel comfortable enough to walk in them. If you’re not used to wearing heels, it’s best to choose a pair of shoes with low or block heels. These are the easiest to walk in. If you’re more experienced with walking in heels, you could wear a pair of closed-toe pumps or stilettos.