Danielle Reynolds
Contributing Writer
What’s the best thing to wear to an interview? Well, besides a smile, formal attire is a must. For women, dresses, skirts or dress pants with a blouse is important business attire to consider when preparing for any professional function from a meeting to an interview . For men, stick to business suits or, if your funds are low this month, slacks and a nice shirt are a strong alternative.
When preparing for any sort of interview most employers are looking for you to show off the best you have to offer them, and that’s not just in your skills; that includes your presence as well.
“It doesn’t matter where you are applying, set yourself apart for the day,” says Danielle Bank at Career Development. “Dressing professionally is how you market yourself.”
I took this advice when interviewing for an internship. I paired my firm handshake and confidence with black dress pants, a nice top, and natural colored make-up. I left the bling at home to keep from distracting my future employer so they were able to focus on what I was saying rather than the clanking of my jewelry.
One unfortunate incident that came before entering the interview was breaking the zipper on my pants, which made me look as though my fly was down. I should have listened to Danielle when she told me to always have a backup outfit with you. After a moment of freaking out, I pulled my shirt way down and hoped it wouldn’t ride up during the interview.
My advice to all college students is to always bring a backup outfit. In addition, schedule a practice interview with Career Development sporting the outfit you plan on wearing. That way you can get their opinion and gain confidence in wearing your selection. This is a great way to make sure all of your bases are covered in the case of an interview disaster.
Also, it can often get expensive shopping for work-appropriate clothes. Thus, try shopping at places like Goodwill, Clothes Mentor or T.J.Maxx for reasonably priced options. Look to buy neutral “stock” pieces that will working with various ties, blouses, and pants.
The interview process should be presenting your future employer with the whole package: your confidence, your expertise and your look.
