Fashion Forward Friday: What to Wear on a Job Interview

You submitted your resume, got a call back and now what? Are you nervous about the interview? Maybe you can’t decide what to wear? Whether you are looking to advance your career, need a change of pace, or you are ready to get back into the work field after some much needed R & R.

First impressions can last forever and sometimes all you get is that first impression, so make it a good one.

1. Walk into that room with as much confidence as you can.
2. Make eye contact.
3. Reach your hand out first to shake your potential employer’s hand.
4. Clothing is everything.

Let’s talk interview appropriate attire. The first thing your eyes are attracted to is color. So choosing the right dominant color for your outfit plays an important role on setting the tone for your interview. First rule: While black is safe, black should never be your predominate color. If all you own is black, then pair it with a pop of color. If you really hate bright hues, pair your black outfits with white and tan accessories or undergarments, this will create a more polished look .If you are interviewing for a sales position, make sure you choose a bold color. This color will let your potential employer know you are a leader and can drive their business to success.
If you are interviewing for a hospitality department position, I recommend you choose a less dominant color. You want this color to give a very comforting feel.

You can never go wrong with a black pencil skirt and fitted blazer.  Pair it with a white blouse and add a few accessories to mix it up.

Try adding a tan pencil skirt to a basic black blouse & blazer combo

Not a fan of skirts?  Try on a pair of tan trousers and match it with a flowing pink blouse.  Pinks a little more interesting than white and the soft hue is very comforting. 

Every color gives off an emotion. Some more than others.  If you need a little help figuring out what color to wear, follow this color psychology chart the next time you have to go out on an interview.  If you want to look traditional and conservative, but still want to convey a sense of risk and adventure then wear a white blouse with a bold red scarf.  If you want to appear cheerful, yet calm and safe, then wear a blue blouse with green and yellow accessories.  Choose between tons of color combos to convey the perfect attitude to your future employer.

Do your research: Make sure you not only know about the company you are interviewing with, but the industry as well. Not only will this make you sound intelligent, but you want to make sure this is really a company you can see yourself working at.

Be prepared: Bring a couple copies of your resume. You cannot assume the interviewer has a copy on hand.

Don’t be late! This one is self-explanatory. You should always be five to 10 minutes early to an interview. If you are not familiar with the area, take a drive there a day or two before.

Be confident: Sit up straight and talk clearly. Confidence is everything. If you believe in yourself, they will too.

Maintain eye contact: Eye contact is important. It lets the interviewer know you are paying attention and respect what they are saying.

Let them know why they need you: Your resume can only take you so far. You need to make them believe you are the perfect candidate for the position. Describe the values you have and why you think they are important to the job. Talk about the problems they may be facing in tough economic times and how you are the right person to solve them.

Be passionate: Passion for the industry can take you far. I have known employers to hire candidates who are less qualified than others based on their passion alone.

Ask questions: This plays into “Do your research.” Ask questions related to the company and the industry. Let them know you are interested and want to learn more about their company.

Send a thank-you note: Always follow up with a thank-you note. Reiterate your interest in the company and mention something specific that was discussed. If you interviewed with multiple people, send one to each person.

Good Luck!!!!!