Part of making a good first impression in the job search is wearing the right thing. Knowing what to wear depends on both the situation (i.e. a job interview, a networking event, an informational interview, etc.) and the particular area of your chosen industry (i.e. music production, banking, publishing, etc.). By doing your research beforehand, you will get an idea of how you should dress for the specific industry and situation. This involves observing the attire of others who have already made it in that industry, and by visiting the settings of those people. Find out where they lunch or where they frequent right after work and go there to see how they have dressed for their typical day of hard work. Make sure you also look your best since it could turn into a networking opportunity.
There are some general guidelines that everyone must follow when it comes to dressing for success, regardless of your chosen area of the industry. First, you need to make sure that your attire supports your image as someone who takes the opportunity seriously and as someone who should also be taken seriously. Notice I said “supports” your image. You don’t want your appearance to overpower you as a person. Be remembered for what you say and what you have to bring to the table, not for what you wear. Always try to dress one step above the job for which you are applying. Other general guidelines you should follow include:
- Looking put together. You never want to look disheveled or sloppy so make sure that no matter what you are wearing, it is clean and in good condition. Make sure there are no missing buttons or lint on your clothes and check for dangling threads and tags.
- Looking like a million bucks without spending a million bucks. You don’t have to spend a fortune to look the part. If you are a recent grad, those interviewing you will understand that you do not yet have the money to dress in expensive attire.
- Wear clothes that fit properly. Proper-fitting clothes can look more expensive while ill-fitting clothes can ruin an entire ensemble. Budget both money AND time for any necessary alterations. Some stores will do free alterations if you purchase your clothing from them.
- Avoid wearing heavy perfume or cologne and don’t go in smelling like cigarettes. You don’t want others to have a coughing fit or an allergic reaction to how you smell!
- Treat yourself to a manicure (yes, this goes for men too!). Well-manicured hands on both men and women exhibit attention to detail.
- Women should remember they have higher chances of error than men when it comes to dressing for success since their clothing is often more trendy and flashy. Be extra careful in your selections.
- Understand what business casual is and is not. Business casual does not mean shorts, sleeveless tanks, mini-skirts, or flip-flops. It can sometimes mean jeans, but only if they are a dark wash jean dressed up with nice shoes and a nice jacket and they are acceptable in that particular setting. This type of look can be a good look for networking at luncheon events or after-work happy hours.
Start shopping for professional attire now! If you have to scramble to find something because you are called for an interview tomorrow, you will end up spending more money because you won’t have the time necessary to devote to finding good sales or bargains. Having something on hand that already fits your body and your budget will decrease any stress that comes with interviews and networking.