First impressions are everything, especially in today’s competitive job market. There are dozens, if not hundreds of applicants for any given position, so the first impression you make has to be a lasting one. By the time you are called in for an interview, you can assume that you already look pretty good on paper to the employer. However, according to a recent Forbes Woman article, one tiny detail can have a big impact when it comes to securing the job. And what you wear has a lot to do with it.
According to a recent study by associate professor of psychology at Oregon State University Frank Bernieri, Ph.D., your interviewer decides within 10 seconds of meeting you whether or not you’re right for the job. If you put the right amount of effort into putting a polished look together, you are more likely to be hired than someone that did not.
So, what’s appropriate for an interview and what’s not? The most appropriate style for an interview is conservative. You just can’ t go wrong with this look. What you should never do is wear too tight or ill-fitting clothes, and women should never show cleavage or wear see through garments. If you wear a skirt, fishnets or patterned stockings are a huge no. Women should wear light makeup (if you wear makeup at all) and hair should be neat and clean. Mohawks, cornrows, excessive hair accessories, and multi-colored hair are all no-nos. It’s also a good idea to cover tattoos or piercings, especially if the piercings are in unusual places such as the eyebrows or lip.
Men should follow the same rules for piercings and tattoos, and stick to button-downs and slacks when it comes to attire. A tie would be a great way to top things off. A Polo shirt and slacks or khakis are fine for a date, but not for an interview.
While these are general guidelines for interviews, you should also consider the type of business you’re interviewing with. For example, strict conservative is great for conservative businesses, but it’s perfectly ok to go a little trendier (but still polished) for say, an advertising or graphic design firm. A few tweaks here and there can go a long way. For conservative businesses, opt for closed-toe shoes. For creative businesses sling-back heels are hipper, but they still look polished.
So where can you shop for the right interview clothes without breaking the bank? Both men and women can try Marshall’s, TJ Maxx or Nordstrom Rack. During your shopping trip, just remember this: Forbes author Laura Sinberg writes “proper attire for an interview will create a halo effect, meaning your interviewer will see you in a positive light and forgive any minor gaffes you make.”
For a quick slideshow to get an idea of what’s appropriate for an interview and what’s not, read Dress for Interview Success at Forbes.com.
Graphic designers design art and copy layouts for material to be presented by electronic media and visual communications media such as magazines, newspapers, books, television, and packaging. Graphic designers use a variety of techniques to communicate messages such as animation, illustration, color, type, and photography. Graphic designers work for advertising agencies, newspapers and magazines, the film and video industry, publishing houses, and government agencies, design firms, and public relations firms.
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