Dressing for Interviews

First impressions count! Your appearance is as important as your qualifications. It is important that you come to an interview well groomed and dressed appropriately. Well-groomed means you should have an overall clean appearance - your hair should be clean and combed and your clothes should be clean, pressed and well fitted.

Attire for employment interviews will generally be either "business" or "business casual." If you have done your research on a company, you will have some idea how employees dress. As a rule of thumb, dress a little better than the typical company attire for the interview. No shorts or jeans please!

Business Dress
For Women:

  • Suit or tailored dress.
  • Conservative colors: black, gray, navy, brown, beige, burgundy.
  • Closed-toe, low-heeled pump.
  • Conservative jewelry.

For Men:

  • Conservative, well-fitting, business suit.
  • Long-sleeved shirt. White is always safe.
  • Conservative tie.
  • Leather oxford or loafer (shined).

Business Casual Dress
For Women:

  • A dress (not a sun-dress), skirt and blouse, or slacks and blouse.
  • Flat heels are okay.

For Men:

  • Khakis are very popular.
  • Long-sleeved shirt.
  • A tie is not necessary.