Looks Matter

Most if not all of us are aware that the way you look when attending an interview contributes to the overall perception of your fit with the company and the role. In support Senior Manager, Megan Alexander states that job interviews are only 50% about technical skills and the other 50% is about whether you fit the company; whether you share the company’s culture, whether you’ll be comfortable in the company’s culture and the way you look will immediately create an impression about whether or not you will fit the organisation.

This may seem superficial to some but in essence it is the reality that appearance counts when making a first impression. Bradley Richardson a contributing writer for Monster states that you are more likely to command respect and get what you want if you're dressed appropriately for your surroundings and it is important to remember that it is very difficult to overcome a poor first impression, regardless of your knowledge or expertise.

Many applicants may become overwhelmed with differing opinions on ‘how to dress to impress’ so we have put together a simple guideline to help you break through the clutter.

1. Do some research on the organisations culture so you can dress appropriately. If the industry is more formal than your current industry, dress accordingly. If you your suit is too big, long in the legs or arms or doesn’t button up it’s time to get a decent suit, go out and buy one, it will be worth it. Wearing higher quality clothes shows that you are willing to invest in your career and future.

2. If you are unsure dress on the conservative side as it is the safe option. Most employers approve of suits. An interviewer is more likely to accept that you can dress down if the environment is more casual than that you will dress more conservatively once you are employed.

3. Keep makeup and hair simple and classic, you don’t want either of these elements to become distracting for the employer. For example if you are constantly pushing hair off your face this will become distracting and irritating for the interviewer!

4. Nails are important so make sure you keep them clean and neatly manicured. Avoid bright coloured nail polish and nail art. Your hands are clearly on view so make sure they send the right message about you.

5. It is recommended that women wear closed-toed shoes and avoid backless shoes and open-toed shoes as they can look too casual. It is important to clean and polish your shoes as run-down shoes ruin an outfit and give the impression that the candidate is careless and does not pay attention to detail. It is imperative that you can walk comfortably and confidently in your shoes, especially if you are going on a workplace tour.

6. Avoid leather or denim as it is not considered professional and can carry negative perceptions. Avoid wearing leather jackets or skirts. Never wear jeans or denim jackets. Shiny, satin-like fabrics are generally inappropriate for smart business wear.

7. You want the interviewer to focus on what you are saying during the job interview. Avoid low necklines, flashy ties, lots of jewellery around your neck, big dangly earrings or over-the-top hairstyles. Make sure that your cologne or perfume is subtle and not too strong as this can also become distracting for the employer.

8. Try your outfit on a couple of days before and make sure your outfit is clean, well pressed and not in any need of repair. You don't want to spend the interview tugging down a too tight or too short skirt! Keep in mind your commute to the interview and try to avoid wearing clothes that wrinkle easily if you have some distance to travel.

9. Maintain a level of professionalism, this means no piercings, no chewing gum or candy and cover up any tattoos or piercings as much as possible. Baggy clothes look messy and tight clothes look as though you are drawing attention to your looks rather than your skills! Remember keep it simple and smart!

Making sure that you are appropriately dressed for the interview will give you an immediate competitive edge right from the start.

Bradley Richardson’s list of things to remember:
• Appearances do matter!
• Don't underestimate the power of a first impression. People make assumptions about you
based upon your appearance at your first meeting.
• You are more likely to receive better service, command more respect and get what you want if

you are dressed and speak appropriately for your surroundings.
• Your appearance should be consistent with your message.

To get more advice on making a successful career transition contact us via email at admin.qld@donington.com.au or call us on 07 3838 1388