by: elizabeth kunkel. first impressions matter ◦ skills and appearance in a survey by the...

Dress to ImpressBy: Elizabeth Kunkel

First impressions matter◦ Skills and appearance

In a survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers, out of 457 employers who recruit college graduates 92% stated ◦ “A candidate’s overall appearance influences their

opinion about the candidate.”

http://www.career.fsu.edu/img/pdf/guides/DresstoImpress.pdf

Importance

Know what’s expected by the potential employer

Dress for a position two levels higher than you are interviewing for

Level of formality ◦ reflects importance of situation and respect for

interviewer Ask for the organization’s dress code policy

Learn the Dress Code

Formal and conservative dress style Don’t choose clothes and accessories that take

away from your professional image Remove piercings and cover tattoos Clean and styled hair

◦ Keep it out of your face Clean and pressed apparel Keep it simple If your questioning an outfit

◦ Don’t wear it

http://amdt.wsu.edu/research/dti/

Business Attire Guidelines

Charcoal, navy, gray or black suit with a long sleeved white, ecru or light blue dress shirt

Silk tie with a simple pattern or solid- should be darker than your shirt

Polished, lace-up shoes that match suit Limit accessories to three pieces Short hair cut, clean shaven, clean nails,

avoid heavy cologne Long coat and briefcase

Men’s Attire

Examples

Skirted suit, pantsuit, or conservative dress◦ Panty hose are a must with a skirt or dress

Avoid blouses with low neck lines or revealing waistlines

Flat or low pump polished shoes, no open toe

Limit accessories to five Clean and neat hair Natural looking makeup, manicured nails,

light perfume Purse or briefcase

Women’s Attire

Examples

Keep clothes in good condition Prevent missing buttons and wrinkles Keep a jacket handy Dress a step higher than your client

Tips

Oxymoron- continuously changes over time Is becoming more defined Casual Fridays, polo with company logo Dress pants or khakis, button down shirts Nice closed toed shoes

Business Casual

Look the Part If you have to ask “Is this appropriate?”-

don’t wear it Dress for Success

Conclusion

http://amdt.wsu.edu/research/dti/ http://www.career.fsu.edu/img/pdf/guides/Dr

esstoImpress.pdf http://www.entrepreneur.com/article/231218

Sources