Girls: Want the Job? Here's How to Dress for the Interview!

Tomorrow is the big day.  It's late at night, and you really should go to bed, but you just can't decide- what should you wear for your important interview tomorrow?? And you haven't even started thinking of shoes, accessories, perfume, and the portfolio vs. bag vs. purse dilemma!

There are so many opinions out there, but lets get to the root of the issue: how can you make a great first impression and get the job?!  Although many people much more experienced than I am, I conducted somewhere between 1,400-1,700 interviews in the past three years, so I have developed a bit of a strong opinion on the issue.  Especially as it pertains to females- as I believe I've seen more variance in their interview attire.  This post is going to be PART 1 and will focus on how to dress.  PART 2 will focus on accessories and other tips!

So, first things first-  whatever your outfit choice is, make sure it fits the culture of the company.  What type of company are you interviewing with?  If you're interviewing with a company centered in the arts, fashion, or even tech- they might see your outfit as a way to get a sense of your personality and artistic sense.  BUT- in all other cases, all professional companies (or any company run by those of older generations) will expect you to arrive in professional attire.  So read on!

I developed a quick and standard checklist, so hopefully your decision will be that much easier: (and remember this is targeted to the female audience!)

1)Clothes: 

• Suit- Wear a suit especially if you're interviewing with a financial company or where highly competitive.  I recommend sticking with conservative colors (black, charcoal, or navy).  I have occasionally seen a sharp looking tan or brown suit, but your safest bet is to stick with darker colors.  In the pantsuit vs skirt suit debate, I'm neutral!  Go with whatever fits your body type best (you'll feel more confident and happy).  However, if you do chose a skirt suit, make sure the skirt at least comes to the top of the knee, and doesn't have a slit higher than two or three inches in the back!  
• Blouse- Stick with classic colors (white or light blue).  A white blouse makes your dark suit look sharp, and blue blouses evoke a sense of calm.  Stay away from other colors (yellows, reds, etc can tend to cheapen the look or be too overpowering).  Stay away from low cut or silky tops- you're not going to the club!  You don't want anyone to be distracted by what you're wearing. You want them to focus on your personality and what you're saying!

2)Shoes: 

• High heels- Yes- you can wear them! ONLY if you wear them correctly.  I would stick with closed toe, dark shoes with a 2 in. heel or less.  High heels can make any look classy!
• Flats- These work as well.  Stay away from flats that have excessive bows or sparkly things.  Again, you don't want to cheapen your look.  Stick with dark colors that compliment your suit.

Stay tuned for next week's post, and you'll be sure to be successful!  And don't forget: Be classy, be kind, and you'll earn the respect you deserve.