You only get one chance to make a first impression, as the saying goes — and what you wear for your interview certainly sends a message to the HR manager, recruiter or would-be boss.
It’s always a good idea to consider what to wear to a job interview, regardless of the position or company.
Do Your Homework
Before choosing what to wear to an interview, research the company to determine how formal the workplace — and associated dress code — are. Common sense also comes into play. Say that you’re looking to work in a small local restaurant that offers a casual and laid back atmosphere. This would likely not require the need to wear business formal attire for an interview (i.e. you shouldn’t have to wear a business suit). A nice dress or button up shirt would do.
However, roles and industries are not necessarily good indicators of what to wear for an interview. For example, software engineering teams are known for promoting a laid-back, casual atmosphere. While photos of the team on the “People” page on the website show them wearing T-shirts and jeans, it’s a good idea to dress a bit more formally than if you were already hired.
Dressing for a Corporate Interview
Job interviews at companies in traditional industries, such as finance, banking or insurance, generally require more formal corporate attire. In general, this means a suit and tie for men and a pantsuit or skirt and blouse for women.
Men's Interview Attire
The best interview outfits for men tend to be conservative. Men should always default to wearing a suit.
Here are a few guidelines for men who are interviewing for corporate roles at traditional companies:
- Suit in a solid color such as navy, black or dark gray
- Long-sleeved shirt that is white or color coordinated with the suit
- Leather belt
- Tie
- Dark socks and conservative leather shoes
- Portfolio or briefcase
Women's Interview Attire
In general, choosing interview attire for women for corporate roles is a bit more complicated than it is for men. This is because of the increased options available to create an outfit. For instance, the height of the heel is a consideration; when in doubt, go for a flat rather than a pump.
Here are the basic considerations for what women should wear to a professional interview:
- Suit in navy, black, or dark gray
- Suit skirt just below or above the knee
- Coordinated blouse
- Conservative shoes
- Neutral-colored pantyhose
- Portfolio or briefcase
A Look at Business Casual
Business casual is unfortunately a frequent source of confusion for workers. Across industries and companies, business casual means different things. Here are some suggestions for nailing business casual attire:
Men’s Business Casual Attire
For men, appropriate business casual attire is dress slacks or chinos, a button-down shirt, dark socks and dress shoes. Avoid wearing polo shirts to an interview, even if they are acceptable for the job in question. Do not wear jeans or shorts. Athletic socks are also a no-no.
The following are some ideas for men considering business casual attire:
- Khaki, gabardine, wool or cotton pants, neatly pressed
- Cotton long-sleeve or button-down shirts, pressed
- Sweaters
- Leather shoes, in black and brown
- Leather belt, in black and brown
Women’s Business Casual Attire
Appropriate business casual outfits for women include a skirt or dress slacks, blouse, sweater, twinset, jacket (optional), and hosiery (optional) with closed-toe shoes.
The following are guidelines for women in need of a business casual outfit for an interview:
- Khaki, corduroy, twill, or cotton pants or conservative-length skirts
- Sweaters, twinsets, cardigans, polo/knit shirts
- A professional dress
Also, solid colors are generally preferable to busy or bold patterns.
What about Interviews for Remote Work?
As a final note, it’s important to consider what to wear for an interview for a remote position—including what to wear for the remote, video-based interview.
Though it’s been generally accepted that roles that were once office-based but are now home office-based require less-formal business attire, it’s a good idea to do, as cited above, some homework about what to wear for an interview.
What might complicate matters is that while the interview and position might be remote, the position might eventually return to an in-person office situation. Cover all the bases and present yourself in the best possible manner for any and all possibilities.
What To Wear to an Interview
In the end, it is suggested that you wear formal attire to an interview. It’s better to be safe than sorry, and looking professional will give off a great first impression to potential employers. Always stay away from jeans, shorts, t-shirts or tennis shoes.
Be your best self
You can read more tips on getting a leg up on the competition on our blog. We cover strategies for building your best resume, acing your interviews, and more!
Sources: Indeed.com - What to Wear: The Best Job Interview Attire TheBalance Careers - The Best Outfits for Job Interviews