Do you know how to dress to succeed? This article is a guide to how men should dress for job interviews. Your appearance has a great psychological impact on everyone who looks at you, but only a few know about this fact.
Times have changed, and along with them have changed and recommendations for preparing for interviews. And in today's precarious, talented job market, where one wrong step can shift anyone to the bottom of the list of candidates, the stakes on the impeccable experience of job interviews are higher than ever before.
How to dress for an interview
Along with your cover letter and resume, the way you behave at the first interview, including your appearance, is a critical component of your initial impression on your potential employers and hiring managers. And we all know how strong and lasting the first impression can be.
So keep reading, and get ready to go shopping if necessary to be sure of your absolute readiness when you start your next job search.
Dress for the circumstances
An important (but often ignored) principle of choosing clothing for job interviews is their relevance to the workplace environment.
What does it mean? Simply put, a three-piece suit may not be the best choice for every situation. An interview at a prestigious law firm and in an art gallery are completely different cases, for which, obviously, you will need a different wardrobe.
In some situations, a conservative outfit is a practical requirement, while in others a little creative flair will be appreciated and well received. During the interview, potential employers will not only ensure that your outfit is impeccable and professional, but also check that it matches the situation and reflects common sense.
When you are finally invited to an interview, you may not know the dress code of the company before your arrival. In start-up companies or in non-professional work, a more informal look can be taken, but if you apply for a professional position, it is important to adhere to a formal style - professional, but not constrained, which makes it a good choice for all types of interviews.
Thus, part of your preparation for each interview is an examination of your target environment and audience (whether it is a meeting room, theater, camping, classroom or somewhere between these places), as well as the choice of clothing that suits the situation.
Suitable cut
In past times, men had a lot of freedom of action when it came to fitting clothes, and many chose comfortable loose fit. Today, custom fitting is more acceptable in fashion - so much so that in some places you will definitely look behind the times if your outfit is too baggy or loose.
Well-chosen clothes radiate a positive professional attitude, while baggy and inappropriate can send a subconscious message that you are not prepared, disorganized, or careless (regardless of whether it is true or not).
It’s best to make sure that your clothes are neatly fitted - this does not mean that you have to buy a completely new wardrobe, but you may need a trip to the tailor if you are drowning in your current outfits.
Don't get too catchy
Of course, you want to stand out from the list of candidates when, among many, you came for an interview, applying for the coveted position. However, do it with the help of your amazing abilities and experience, and not with the help of too luxurious attire.
Resist the urge to go through interviews in loudly colored suits and shirts with unusually creative ties and save them for your next party or social gathering (unless you are sure that this is the right environment for this). Instead, choose a more modest color palette and cut. Believe the experts - extravagant clothes will help you stand out, but most likely not the way you want.
Comfort is the key to choosing clothes
In addition to a carefully thought out and suitable outfit, an equally important condition for a successful interview is the emission of an aura of confidence. And this means that in your clothes you should feel comfortable. Try on your outfit before the interview day and make sure that your choice of clothes, your appearance and prospects of getting a job make you feel good. Nothing spoils the first interview as a complete lack of confidence and comfort, so be prepared for this and know that you have been warned.
Use these tips to think about your style and clothes, and be fully prepared when the day of interview comes. Beautiful appearance leads to well-being, which, in turn, will give you a great advantage, and you will be ready to take part in the competition. Good luck