What to Wear: How to Present Yourself for a Job Interview?
First impression is the last impression” - a quote we all are well-versed with, especially when cracking job interviews. Your choice of interview attire can leave long-lasting impressions on the job interviewers and ultimately contribute to a successful outcome.
Similarly, wearing the wrong clothes might reduce the chances of cracking the job interview and working in your dream company. The right set of job interview clothes boosts your confidence, reflects your personality, and brings out the best version of yourself.
What types of interview attire to wear primarily depends on the work culture of the interview place. You can not wear casual clothes for a job interview where everyone wears a suit or dresses formally. You might get rejected the minute you enter the interview room for your unprofessional behavior. Likewise, you can not wear formal clothes for a job interview where everyone dresses casually or informally. It can make you look out of place and affect your confidence levels.
Therefore, it is extremely important to research and learn about the company before applying for your job interview. Additionally, employers give details about their work culture on websites where you can apply for the job.
Whether you are planning to apply for a job in a reputable company or looking for more casual settings, this guide will help you determine the most suitable job interview outfits to choose from.
Job Interview Outfits for Women
It is always an ideal practice to get information from employees working in the company you are applying for a position. It will help you get an insight into their work environment and the types of outfits your should wear for your job interview. Here are some popular outfit ideas that you can consider for your interview.
1. Formal business interview
For formal job interviews, you must follow a formal dress code. Skirts and tailor jackets are the most preferred outfits for formal business interviews. Opt for a more solid color shirt or blouse to wear beneath your tailored jacket. Keep your makeup light, hide any visible tattoos, and avoid wearing heels that are difficult to walk in.
2. Casual business interview
Shirts and trousers are the best outfit options for casual business interviews. You can also style your look with accessories, but keep it as simple as possible. Avoid wearing low-cut shirts or blouses. Neatly tie your hair and avoid keeping it completely open. Choose handbags and footwear that match your outfit. For heels, stick to 2-6 cm long heels that don’t make much noise while walking.
3. Casual interview
Unlike the previous two job interview environments, you can wear casual clothes that reflect your personality. Wear dark-colored jeans along with mid or perfect-size tops/shirts. Ensure to cover all your visible tattoos and body piercings. You can choose bold accessories, but avoid wearing accessories that draw too much attention. Style your hair neatly in a bun or ponytail.
4. Worker interview
For a worker interview environment, avoid wearing outfits that are torn, worn out, and sustain patches, holes, or stains. Too tight clothes might not leave a good impression on your interviewer and make you look unprofessional or out of place. So, consider wearing neat outfits without any bold graphics, loud appearance, and more.
Job Interview Outfits for Men
Here is everything you need to know to pick up attire for your job interviews.
1. Formal business interview
Opt for more dark color suits and pair them with light color shirts for a more formal look. Choose more conservative or dark color ties, probably matching your suit. Avoid wearing bow ties and busy pattern ties as they are considered inappropriate and informal wear. Wear matching socks or light colors and carry your resume in smart laptop bags.
2. Casual business interview
For casual business interviews, you can choose to wear light and sophisticated color shirts free of any stains and lint. Avoid wearing strong cologne, open-toe shoes, and shirts without collars. Shave facial hair and get your hair cut if your hair is quite long or tie it back. Keep your outfit as simple as possible.
3. Casual interview
No matter what outfit you wear, ensure it looks polished, neat, and tidy. Cover all visible body tattoos and piercings and set your hair neatly. Don’t wear bold or excessive cologne and open-toe shoes. Wear a tie only if it is part of the company’s regular business uniform.
4. Worker interview
For the worker interview environment, wear your best jeans ( without holes, strips, or stains) along with a belt. You can also pair your jeans with a casual polo shirt or black color t-shirt. If you are wearing a hat or cap, ensure to remove it before entering the premises, and cover up your visible body tattoos and piercings.
It is important to dress appropriately to boost your confidence and get rid of anxiety or panic during interviews. Get in touch with genuine and reputable interview coaching classes to train yourself before applying for your job interview.