Dressing For The Interview
Remember that first impressions are lasting impressions. Before you leave for the interview, check your appearance, paying special attention to your grooming and overall appeal is very important.
Preparing for the Interview
- Always dress conservatively
- If possible dress up in a suit, preferably in solid colours like black, grey, and navy blue
- You should always wear a light coloured blouse
- If you do not have a suit, a pair of dress pants or knee-length skirt and panty hose with a light coloured blouse is appropriate
- Try dressing similar to what management wears, but without an overstatement
- It is always good to accessorize, but keep it small. No chunky accessories.
- Make sure hair is neatly styled and clean
- Have clean hands and trimmed nails
- Wear nicely scented perfumes/deodorants
- Wear shoes that you can walk easily in
What Not to Do
- Do not dress casual, by wearing torn, soiled, wrinkled clothing
- Avoid a lot of jewellery
- Keep scents to a minimum
- Do not wear running shoes
- Avoid offensive smelling foods prior to the interview
- Do not wear sexy, revealing clothing, like mini skirts
- Refrain from gum chewing or smoking
- Do not wear heavy make-up
Interview Tips
- Be on time for the interview. Plan to arrive about 15 minutes early.
- Listen attentively, without interrupting, and maintain good eye contact while the employer asks and answers questions.
- Act interested and enthusiastic about obtaining the job.
- Avoid waving your hands, toying with pens or other objects, sloughing in the chair, or gazing around the room. Eliminate using the terms, "OK", "you know", and "ah".
- Don't be afraid to use humour. Let your personality shine through.
- Always have questions prepared for the interviewer with regard to job responsibilities.
