Dressing for interview? things you must never ignore.

When you’re going to a job interview, your appearance is extremely important. Whether or not you look professional or sloppy could play a huge role in whether your interviewer feels that you are suitable for the job.  Knowing what to wear for a job interview is half the battle of the interview itself.  “You never get a second chance to make a first impression” is an old adage that holds true when it comes to job interviews.

Here are a few pointers on how to score great points on your appearance:

Consider the company’s dress code: you need to seriously consider the dress code of the company that has invited you for an interview.  Are you interviewing with a company where the employees wear suits every day?  You don’t want to appear before your interviewer wearing t-shirts and jeans or a gown (for the ladies). The industry you are interviewing for should also be considered, as the dress code for an accounting firm is likely to be different from that of engineering or a construction company.

Groom yourself: Good grooming and hygiene is essential, so make sure you have clean hair, fingernails, fresh breath, deodorant, etc. Hair should be styled in a neat and modest manner, and keep them away from your face, preferably pulled or packed backwards (for the ladies). Use perfumes and aftershave mildly, so that it is not annoyingly overpowering and the same goes for makeup that should be kept subtle.

Men, if you have facial hair, be sure to clean shaven or give it a trim and comb it through ahead of the interview. Don’t wear flashy pieces of jewellery, as it may become distracting and you’ll want the interviewer to pay attention to you, not your jingling ornaments.

Choose your accessories smartly: Accessories should be kept smart, so if you are taking a bag with you, a smart satchel, briefcase or handbag would be the better option over a backpack. Shoes should be clean and looking new. Keep heels at a sensible height. 

 

Other points of note:

1. Beware of clothes with bold patterns and dazzling  colors.
2. Avoid extreme fashion, tight or revealing clothes.
3. Shoes should match the color of your trousers or skirt, or darker.
4. Make sure your clothes fit and sit comfortably on you.
5. Trousers should not be too long or short.
6. You could phone the company to know if they have a dress code. 
7. Check your breath. 
8.  Smile, it helps both parties to relax. Your interviewer could be nervous as well.
9. Do not slouch; sit up straight with your hands on your thighs. 
10. give a firm hand shake.

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