LOOK SHARP NOT SLOUCHY FOR INTERVIEW SUCCESS
With the furore surrounding Holly Willoughby and the suitability of her choice of dress for a prime time Sunday night slot set to roll on, selecting appropriate dress to suit the time, place and audience of any event that life throws at us, such as a job interview isn’t as simple as we might think.
It’s an unavoidable fact that first impressions really count and looking credible and confident when being interviewed can suggest you’re the right person for the job.
Sharp Consultancy’s Managing Director Mark Wilson comments, “Some candidates think that when it comes to interviews clothes shouldn't matter and that it doesn’t make a difference to whether they can do the job or not, but when employers take on a new person they are thinking about the company's image and whether that person reflects it.
"Many of us think it is common sense when deciding on the appropriate dress code for an interview, but you will be surprised how many mistakes can be made but by following the few simple rules below, looking the part may just give you the edge over another candidate.”
- Find out the company policy on dress code. You can do this by telephoning to ask or visit the workplace a few days before and check the people coming and going. Many workplaces have moved towards a smart casual approach but for some sectors formal is still the norm.
- For some companies’ suits may not be worn during a normal working day, but unless you are made aware of this, go for a suit. If you wear a suit, the employer can see that you will be able to dress more casual, but if you turn up casually dressed it places a doubt on whether you can smarten up.
- Companies will be looking for a certain image to project. This doesn't mean you can't show off your individualism, but it's important to remember that they are looking for someone to represent their company.
- Make sure what you are wearing is clean and comfortable so you can be confident wearing it. You want to be concentrating on the interview, not worrying that your shirt is riding up; your shoes are giving you blisters or the coffee stain on your tie.
- Too much cleavage and a crop top showing off your mid-rift maybe great for a night out but not in a job interview.
- Scruffy shoes are a no-no. Take a few minutes while getting ready to make sure they are clean and polished.
- Too many earrings, nose rings, eyebrow piercings and any other piercing for that matter can offend interviewers and really effect how they view you and your personality.
- Greasy, dirty hair won't win any brownie points so make sure it’s clean and tidy.
- Personal hygiene is a must and smelling clean and free from body odour is essential. However too much aftershave or perfume can be overbearing so go easy and don't overdo it.
