It’s a common question as dress codes have changed drastically in the past decade.
Preparing to look your best for an interview involves more than just choosing the right outfit. It’s about presenting yourself in a way that conveys professionalism, confidence, and suitability for the role. First impressions are 68 percent visual and happen in seconds. You say a lot before you ever open your mouth.
Here is how to prepare for the interview and beyond.
Do your homework
How do you want to be perceived? If you want to be perceived as creative and edgy, choose accessories or a part of your outfit that supports that message. You also want to balance that personality with what’s appropriate for an interview, but authenticity is important. Understand the company’s dress code and the role you’re applying for. Aim to dress one notch above the company’s everyday attire. Do you know what colors look best on you? Opt for classic colors like navy, black, gray, or white for suits and professional attire, and adding a pop of color creates a memorable impression. You don’t want to look like all the other people interviewing for the position.
Nail the details
Do your clothes fit well? Ill-fitting clothes can be distracting (to you and your interviewer) and convey a lack of attention to detail. Take the time to get alterations done if you need them.
Keep your accessories on the “less is more” side, but you also want to be yourself. Look for simple, professional accessories such as a watch, jewelry in a metal that harmonizes with your skin tone, and shoes that are appropriate for the outfit. Jewelry and accessories should complement your outfit without drawing attention away from you. Knowing the scale (size of the pattern or accessory) that works best for you is key.
Confidence and Comfort
Do your clothes make you feel confident and comfortable? Your confidence will be reflected in your body language, so ensure your attire supports this. Before leaving, do a final mirror check to ensure everything looks as it should. Looking your best contributes to confidence and helps you perform better during the interview. Remember, while appearance is important, it’s just one aspect of making a good impression. Combine your polished look with thorough preparation, thoughtful responses, and genuine enthusiasm for the role to maximize your chances of success in the interview.
You got the job! Now what?
Regardless of the dress code in your new role, it’s important to still dress in a way that tells the world how you want to be perceived. You might be able to dress a bit more casually now that you’re in the daily rhythm of the job, but think twice before breaking out your athleisure. Trends are great, but they are best expressed outside the workplace. Want to know which colors and styles complement you and convey how you want to be perceived? The team at House of Colour is here to help you throughout your career and beyond. Contact Darcie.Zauha@houseofcolour.com.
