Get Dressed to Get Hired

“What do I wear to an interview? This is a common questions asked by job seekers.  While you might have little control over the interview questions you are asked there is  ONE thing you can take charge of - the way you present yourself for interviews. 

The way you dress could clinch that much sought-after, once in a lifetime job. Or  it may leave you hanging in the background like the forgotten pair of last season’s trousers. A survey taken in 2011 said 37% of employers decided against hiring someone due to what they were wearing. While many people say “You can’t judge a book by its cover” unfortunately it happens.  Therefore I wouldn’t miss a job opportunity by not putting the time and effort into my appearance for an interview.

Just a week ago a lady came for an interview with me whose credentials were very impressive, however, my first impression was "doesn’t she look very polished?".  She made a lasting impression in a couple of seconds and will spring to mind for future positions.

Of course the dress code in companies can vary quite a bit. An accountant will dress differently from a java developer or an advertising executive. So should you dress according to your industry? The hard and fast rule here should be NO. Regardless of whether you are interviewing for technology, finance or hospitality sector you should remove all uncertainty by choosing professional attire.  A suit is the safest and best choice for any interview.

Here are a few essentials to consider when creating this lasting first impression.

For Women  

• Structured pencil skirt (below the knee will be flattering on most shapes)
• A good fitting pair of black trousers - if there is a second round this gives an alternative to your interview wardrobe
• A fitted buttoned shirt/ high neck blouse
• Suit jacket - one that’s comfortable enough and easily buttoned
• Shoes - this is a tricky one as you can slightly showcase a bit of personality here but with caution

                - no open toe

                - no bright colours

                - no skyscraper heels

                - no ankle straps

• Accessories - these should be as minimal as possible, think of your school days, nothing too ostentatious. If you have any facial piercings, it might be worthwhile leaving them at home.
• No bare legs - a woman not wearing stockings is as bad as a man not wearing socks.
• Do try it on a few days before the interview to avoid last minute panic

For Men - A Suit

• A solid dark toned conservative suit
• A light coloured long sleeve shirt
• Dark shade socks 
• A conservative tie - no animated characters or flashy emblems but you have the opportunity to add some colour to your outfit
• Generally a pair of well polished black shoes will be best.

Most importantly fit is crucial - if the suit is too big it will look like it belongs to your dad!

You should also consider your grooming. For the ladies - painted nails, low key make-up and conservative hair style. For the boys, if you like a one razor, back and sides on your head, wait until after you’ve been hired and also consider your nails.  

Maybe you don’t want to be conservative, maybe it’s a dilution of your individual personality? But bear in mind, you will be competing for a job against candidates with similar experience and background that will present themselves more conservatively. You have to ask yourself is it worth the risk?

Dan Zevin, a well known author says it all with “Never wear a backward baseball cap to an interview unless applying for the job of umpire”

Getting dressed for an interview doesn’t have to be a stressful ordeal just follow these simple rules and you’ll be well on your way to impressing what could be your new employer"


Susan Hogan
Business Manager 
Hays Information Technology
email: Susan.hogan@hays.com
T: +353 1 678 7649


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