Dressing for Success

How to Prepare for an Interview by Dressing the Part

Making a strong first impression is important to gaining new opportunities in the job market. Often your interviewer will likely see you before you can wow them with your knowledge and skills. Most people make judgements based on visual cues and the direction of your interview can be changed based on your appearance. This is why it is important to dress for success.

Follow these tips to put together a successful interview look

Two professionals sitting at desk during an interviews.

Research the Company Culture to Decide your Outfit

  • It is always better to dress a step above the usual attire at the office when looking to make an impression. What dressing for success will mean for you will depend on the industry you work in. It's best to find out about the dress code (you can ask your recruiter or HR) prior to the interview.

  • As you research the job role, try to get a feel for the company’s culture. Are you interviewing at a corporate level? Will you be required to wear a blazer or heels to a meeting? Or is it a work-from-home or casual startup workplace? Would jeans and a button-down shirt be appropriate?

Picking the Right Pieces

  • Wear clean and well fitted clothes. A basic, single-color, shirt with a well fitted blazer and basic black or khaki pants is generally a safe bet.

  • Stick to basic colors and patterns to help interviewer focus on you and not your clothes. Bright colors and patterns can be distracting.

  • Avoid clothes that don’t fit well, are especially baggy or tight, shirts with graphics, messy/un-groomed hair, and excessive jewelry.

  • Wear something you feel comfortable in - if you never wear suits, don't wear one to the job interview as if you don't feel confident in your outfit, it will show.

Interviewing on Camera?

  • Download the app or do a test run online for the video program you will be using. During the test run, check your lighting, sound, and background to make sure they are appropriate.

  • Still be sure to dress the part! If anything, it will help you keep that interview readiness mind-set.

For any Interview, Remember

  • Never interview with gum or candy in your mouth.

  • Be aware of your posture and body language. Good posture and a solid handshake (or elbow tap or wave post-pandemic) is important, as is making eye contact and smiling.

  • Get everything ready the day before. Lay out your clothes and accessories, as well as your resume package and any items you may need, so that there is no last-minute panic about what you are bringing to the interview.

Need clothing assistance? Reach out to the Frederick County Workforce Services team. Resources are available to help you dress the part.

Jessica Mills