Thursday, October 30, 2014

(CEIS) Career, Education and Information Services: Tips For Job Interview Success

(NY Public Library)
Career and Education Information Services can give you advice on dressing for your interview and thinking about the image you want to project. "Struggling to decide on an outfit for your upcoming job interview: What you wear to an interview creates an image or perception of the type of person you are, so choosing your attire is critical to presenting yourself as the right candidate to hire" (Forbes, 2014)



One or two well-chosen business suits will serve you all the way to the first day on the job and beyond. Then, when you are making some money (and have a chance to see what the standard "uniform" is for the company), you can begin to round out your wardrobe. For now, no one will fault you for wearing the same sharp outfit each time you interview. If you desire some variety within a limited budget, you might consider varying your shirt/blouse/tie/accessories as a simple way to change your look without breaking your wallet.

For those of you who need a quick review of the basics, follow these guidelines for successful interview dress:

Men and Women


Conservative two-piece business suit (solid dark blue or grey is best)
Conservative long-sleeved shirt/blouse (white is best, pastel is next best)
Clean, polished conservative shoes
Well-groomed hairstyle
Clean, trimmed fingernails
Minimal cologne or perfume
Empty pockets—no bulges or tinkling coins
No gum, candy, or cigarettes
Light briefcase or portfolio case
No visible body piercing (nose rings, eyebrow rings, etc.) or tattoos

Men


Necktie should be silk with a conservative pattern
Dark shoes (black lace-ups are best)
Dark socks (black is best)
Get a haircut; short hair always fares best in interviews
Fresh shave; mustaches are a possible negative, but if you must, make sure it is neat and trimmed
No beards (unless you are interviewing for a job as a lumberjack!)
No rings other than wedding ring or college ring
No earrings (if you normally wear one, take it out)

Women


Wear a suit with a jacket and skirt or slacks; no dresses
Shoes with conservative heels
Conservative hosiery at or near skin color (and no runs!)
No purses, small or large; carry a briefcase instead
If you wear nail polish, use clear or a conservative color
Keep your makeup simple and natural (it should not be too noticeable)
No more than one ring on each hand
One set of earrings only

"As the old saying goes: Perception is reality. Think about the image you want to project during your interview and then choose an outfit that will create a positive perception and is appropriate, given the time of year, your geographic location, and the job/company/industry." —Lisa Quast, Author Your Career, Your Way!

Source: www.nypl.org

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