You’ve heard it before, but it bears repeating: first impressions count. Dress professionally for every job fair or interview even if the company has a casual dress policy.
Here are some tips to get you started:
- Your attire should not draw attention away from your personality and what you are saying.
- Personal hygiene is important. Pay attention to everything, including your fingernails.
- Shoes are important. They should be conservative, dark color, polished and not too casual.
- Choose conservative, solid, simple colors, such as tan, brown, black, or gray. Choose neutral colored shirts, such as white, off-white, beige, or a color that complements your suit.
- Keep jewelry to a minimum.
- Everything should be well-pressed.
- Do not chew gum and finish breath mints prior to the interview.
- Check for seam rips, runs in stockings, loose strings, and missing buttons. Everything you wear should be in top condition.
General Tips for Men
- Wear a dark color suit and make sure your tie matches.
- Tie must touch the top of your belt buckle and pants must touch the top of your shoes.
- Tattoos should be covered and piercings must be removed.
- Choose long sleeved shirts in a neutral color.
- Avoid heavy cologne or aftershave.
- Avoid spiky hairdos and excessive hair gel. Also, make sure facial hair is well-groomed.
- Do not wear ankle socks or light colored socks.
General Tips for Women
- Wear natural make up that completes your look but is not overdone.
- Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes with moderate heels.
- Avoid heavy perfume.
- Do not show cleavage.
- Skirts should come to just above the knee and must be worn with hosiery.
- Choose a simple hairstyle.
- Avoid dangling earrings or bracelets. Keep jewelry simple and tasteful, if it makes noise when you move, don’t wear it.
- Piercings, other than earrings, should not be worn.
Examples of professional attire can also be found in the College of Business Undergraduate Career Guide and the Facebook album for the Ann Taylor Dress for Success Workshop
