What Ladies Should Wear for a Job Interview
Interviewing is like a blind date; you have no idea what is going to happen or what to wear. With a few very simple rules, I can help you with the correct dress for your next job interview. You are on your own with the blind date. Good luck with that! Women even more than men need to present the professional image to be taken seriously.
Even with the right education, the best job skills, and a great personality, you will fail to get the job you want unless you present the image of a professional. Even if you are looking for an entry level job, you should dress for success. A few years ago, I witnessed first hand what happens when you don’t dress your best. I was in a book store when I saw a young woman come into the store to ask for a job application. She was dressed for a day at the beach. She was wearing very shorts that were too tight and too short and a very casual top. Her finishing touch was her flip flops. Although she was given an application, the manager never even considered her for the job. When she handed the manager the application, it was thrown in the trash as soon as she was out of the store. She lost the job as soon as she entered the store. Therefore, it is important to dress correctly even when you ask for an application.
No matter what job you are applying for, the rules are pretty much the same. Ladies should always dress conservatively. Although most woman no longer wear dresses, a very conservative suit or even pants suit are suitable for most jobs. Of course, a simple dress is always appropriate. Wearing neutral colors is always a good idea. Bright colors or busy patterns in clothing are also not a good idea. You want to present a professional persona. Your clothes are simply an accessory to your personality, education, and job skills.
Shoes are a very important part of your appearance. Your shoes should be clean and neat. Heels are great but should be of moderate height. Add a coordinating purse or briefcase and you are good to go.
A few more simple rules and you are on your way to the perfect look. You can wear some very simple jewelry. Never wear large earrings or earrings that dangle or move. A very simple bracelet is ok but should not be gaudy or too bright. Even though many women no longer wear hose, you should wear a very neutral pair of hose for the interviews. I know they are a pain but the proper hose completes the professional look.
The proper hairstyle is also important. No particular hairstyle is necessary but your hair should be neat and not showy. The hairstyle should complement your overall look. Make-up should be very natural looking without that made-up look. Although many women wear perfume, it’s not a good idea for a job interview because the smell might overpower you and make others uncomfortable, especially if they have allergies.
It goes without saying that you should never ever chew gum at a job interview. In this day and time, when movie stars are constantly shown on camera looking like cows chewing, many people think nothing of chewing gum in public. Regardless of what you think of chewing gum, it is never acceptable for a job interview.
Presenting the perfect appearance is essential for a job interview. Adhering to a few simple rules, you will be ready to put your best foot forward and get that great job.
