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Kelli Bonifer: Dress to impress for interviews

By Kelli Bonifer, Adair Co. Extension Agent for Family & Consumer Sciences

Interviews can be stressful for interviewees but determining the appropriate attire to wear should not. Appearance speaks volumes for a person, long before he or she ever says a word.

The way you look and project yourself through clothing selection, proper grooming and body language can help a prospective employer determine if you are the right candidate for a job. While proper interview attire does not make up for lack of education or job qualifications, it can make or break your chances of getting a job offer.




You should plan interview attire in advance, at least by the night before.

The most important thing to remember when selecting clothing for an interview is simplicity. Clothes should be neat, clean and properly fit your body. Solid colors are best, but simple patterns such as stripes and checks may be appropriate for women.

Sometimes, the job you are applying for can determine the appropriate attire for an interview. A good tip to remember is to dress for the job position above the job you are applying for. If you are nervous about selecting the appropriate attire, you can arrive at the interview site a couple of days before to observe employees coming and leaving the job site. Another option is to consult a personal shopper, found in many department stores.

There are certain clothing rules that hold true to all types of jobs. All clothing should properly fit.

If you have questions about how a particular outfit looks on you, evaluate your choice in a mirror the night before the interview.

Avoid wearing anything sleeveless.

Shoes should be neat, clean and freshly polished if possible. Socks should match the color of the shoe and hosiery should be a neutral color.

Women should never wear heels higher than two inches. Dresses should be at least knee length.

Impeccable grooming is essential

In addition to the proper dress, impeccable grooming is essential.

Shower the night before or the morning of an interview.

Brush your teeth.

Make sure your fingernails are clean and trimmed.

Men should neatly trim facial hair.

Tie back hair longer than shoulder length with a band that closely matches your hair color.

Womens makeup should flatter the outfit without drawing attention away from it. You should choose soft eye shadows and lipsticks. Sparingly apply cologne or perfume.

During the interview, sit and stand tall with shoulders square. If extended a handshake, always firmly shake hands. Look prospective employers in the eye when speaking or listening. You should place your hands neatly in your lap. Avoid fidgeting with your clothing. Women should avoid crossing their legs except at the ankles. Always be courteous to any additional employees you may have contact with because they could potentially be your coworkers.

Projecting yourself as a confident, capable person in an interview can help you land the job of your dreams. To learn more about proper interview attire and behavior, contact the Adair County Cooperative Extension Service.Educational programs of the Cooperative Extension Service serve all people regardless of race, color, sex, religion, disability or national origin.For all your home and food questions, contact:
Kelli Bonifer
County Extension Agent for Family & Consumer Sciences
Adair County Cooperative Extension Service
P. O. Box 309, Columbia, KY 42728
PHONE: (270) 384-2317
FAX: (270) 384-9167



This story was posted on 2008-09-15 08:52:44
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