ResumeBear Blog

Top 6 Things You Should Never Wear to a Job Interview

Posted on 10. Nov, 2009 by ResumeBear in Career Advice, Featured Articles, Interview Tips, Job Hunting Strategies

It has been said that “Clothes make the man (or woman)”.  This is especially important when trying to find a job.

You have only one opportunity to make a first impression, and how you are dressed contributes to that impression.   It is critical, particularly in this competitive job market, to understand the importance of choosing the appropriate dress for an interview, and understanding that what we choose to wear on that interview can often impact the outcome of that interview before you even open your mouth.

You can tell a lot about a person by the way they dress.   How you dress is not only a personal expression, but reflects how you feel about the occasion. The first impression of the hiring manager should be reflecting your dedication to landing the job. It is vital to present a professional look which will demonstrate a serious attitude and show that you put some thought and care into your first impression.  In the same way, displaying a disrespectful appearance will show hiring managers that you don’t care about the interview, and probably won’t care about the job.

Sometimes people are unsure about what to wear and how to dress appropriately to an interview, and often the final result will do more harm then good. We recently surveyed 100 human resource professionals and selected some pointers which will help you learn what NOT to wear on your next job interview.

1.  Short Skirts

NEVER wear a tight, short skirt on a job interview! Always try on your clothes before the interview.  Never assume that something will fit, or not be too tight. Tight shirts and short skirts are inappropriate for the work place, and will keep people from taking you seriously. If being sexy is important to you, try a form fitting, yet not too tight – knee length, high-waisted skirt. It will create a clean, slimming look, and it will also imply that you care about your appearance, but want to be professional at the same time.

2.  Short Sleeved Shirts with a Tie

Short sleeved shirts and ties do not go well together. Short sleeved business shirts in men are too casual, and adding a tie will often create a conflicting image. Steer clear – the informal look will make you look unprofessional. Try a button down, long sleeved shirt with a complementary tie instead.  If you must wear a short sleeved shirt, add a matching blazer to your look so no one can tell the difference.

3.  Sun Glasses and Bulky Accessories

Let’s face it, wearing sunglasses indoors is at best, pretentious, and at worst, suspicious. Eye contact is very important in any conversation.  Sunglasses hinder eye contact , and thus can create the illusion that you are not paying attention, or are not serious about the interview.  Other accessories like jewelry also need to be work-appropriate.  Large, garish costume jewelry can also make you look irresponsible.   Avoid cheap costume jewelry, and pick smaller, flattering pieces instead which dress up your look and draw it together, rather than make you look disorganized.

4.  Underwear as Outer Wear

Nobody wants to see your boxers, or bra straps.  See-through clothing isn’t sexy, it’s trashy.  Always remember your business wardrobe is a look into your character, and you will not be taken seriously if you look as though you want to to be treated like a sex object.  Your business wardrobe needs to reflect your attitude, and  should always be respectful to the workplace, and yourself.

5. Work Out Clothes

As with underwear, spandex and muscle gear is for the gym, and NEVER the office.  Workout gear is often provocative – neither look is what you want to display to a potential employer.  Keep gym clothes in the bag, and respectful, work-appropriate attire at the work place.

6.  Soiled, Stained or Wrinkled Clothing

You don’t want to look like you just got out of bed. It is better to wear a cheap new shirt and pair of pants that are neatly pressed clean, stain and wrinkle free, and fresh – than designer brands that are soiled or wrinkled.   Second hand stores, thrift stores and garage sales are great places to look for career wear if budget is a factor.  Lower end department stores and mass merchandisers are also good places to find work-appropriate attire. Also remember to keep your work clothes clean, and fresh.   In addition, pressing business attire creates the appearance of an outfit being crisp and new. Looking your best will make you feel your best, and will boost your confidence during your interview.

Related posts:

1. Embarrassing Interview Moments and How to Avoid Them
2. Come to the interview working, not looking for work
3. 2009 Job Fair Survival Guide
4. 15 Job Interview Horror Stories
5. Interview Tips for First-Time Job Seekers

Tags: clothes make the man, first impression, Interview Tips, job interview, resume, resumebear, What to wear to a job Interview