There are a number of dress codes that are considered standard
for various kinds of interviews depending on the profession or the career path
one wants to follow. A sharp, professional, clean look helps the candidate
create a first and lasting impression to the employer and creates a strong
point that may help him secure the job. Outlined below are some of the key
points to consider for both men and women when dressing for a formal interview:
Attire:
The suit can be defined in terms of color, the fabric and
style. A navy blue, grey or black suit at the least should do whether they are
pine striped, plain or solid. Dark colors portray seriousness and brings out
that conservative look.
The fabric should be pure cotton or a blend with cotton
dominating, because cotton breathes and this enables comfort .The pants and
jackets should have linings as this will reduce creases and abrasions between
the thighs and the pants.
The style consists of whether its single breasted or double
depending on the fashion of the day but all the same it should be buttoned up
except for the last bottom button.
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The shirt should be complete cotton, with light
colors and should not be too tight around the neck.
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The tie should complement your suit and be in
contrast with your shirt so that it stands out. Silk
ties are more preferable
as they are easy to tie Windsor note and make the tie centered, plus they look
classy.
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A belt is important attire and the leather
should match with the shoes which are preferably dark tan or straight black and
the metal that is the buckle should match with the watch if you are wearing
any. For ladies the shoes should not have too much of a heel as this may be
discomforting.
Accessories:
An interview is not a place to show all your body piercings,
tattoos and metal effects like bangles and silverware or gold necklaces. You
should stick to one ring on both hands, a pair of earrings one for each ear as
too many may reduce the professional look and other body piercings and tattoos
should be hidden if you have any, unless your going for an interview in a
tattoo or piercing firm.
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If you have to wear any cologne don’t overdo, it
should be worn sparingly since it might one that smells good to you but an
insecticide to other people. Lastly, there shouldn’t be any accessories bulging
out of pocket e.g. wallets, pens, phones as this looks totally unprofessional
and destructing.
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Hair do should be kept neat and tied to the back
not extending the collar and should be behind the ears on the sides and not
protruding to the face on the front, otherwise it should be kept short and neat.
This gives the interviewer a chance to see your whole face and shows that you
have confidence. If you have to wear anything like a weave for women they
should also consider the above standards.
Summary
There
are a lot of thing one has to look at when dressing for an interview but all
that matter is “what are the requirements for the profession or career you are
pursuing?” All the same the you cant comprise on creating an impression with an
outstanding look.
Humphrey Indeje
Procurement and Supplies Professional