SEVEN STYLE TIPS TO NAIL THAT INTERVIEW

So you’ve secured an interview – congratulations!

So with your credentials approved now it’s up to you to visually reflect that as we embark on the second interview challenge: what to wear?

Ultimately, dressing for an interview is dressing for success and not something to take lightly in today’s competitive job market so in today’s blog we’re presenting an array of style options for various ages to help you find your interview style.

Over the last decade, we’ve seen a shift in workplace attire where suits and corporate dress are no longer the only go-to for interviews.

A rise of small businesses and entrepreneurs, creative agencies and corporate companies relaxing their brand have reshaped interview style expectations allowing flexibility for interesting looks.

So before you reach for your skirt and blazer, interview attire should be a reflection of the company hosting the interview.

Your style can also tell recruiters exactly how much you know about the company and it’s culture.

So here are seven style tips to consider pre interview:

Seven Seconds

You only have one chance to make a first impression and it’s actually a tiny window of second seconds.

So ensure you look impeccable and are comfortable, smile and politely introduce your fabulous self before the interview begins.

Dress For The Workplace

Is what you are wearing producing the right feel for the work environment? Is your interview at a corporate recruitment agency or conservative workplace? Or perhaps you are in a more creative and relaxed space.

Match your look to your environment and when in doubt, dress “smarter” than expected.

Perception Perfection

Your clothes and general appearance will depict whether you are neat or sloppy which a recruiter may translate to the way you work in the office. In all cases – be neat.

Swap Sexy For Stylish

Great pins or a great cleavage? Save them for the weekend!

No low cleavage or short skirts – the recruiter needs to focus on your credentials not your…well… you know. Project professionalism through stylish and well-fitted clothes.

Hair & Accessories

Yes I’m aware I’m always sending you off to Lovisa for the latest cluster of bangles however in interview.

I advise that you opt for minimal accessories. You don’t want the bling to distract the recruiter or hear yourself jangling as you walk about disrupting other workers.

Keep your hair polished and manicured nails are an added bonus.

Colour Brights Can Be Blinding

Wearing a loud print or bright colour could deflect the interviewer from listening to you properly so opt for a colour that flatters your skin tone and one where the recruiter will see you first.

Same goes for lip or eye colour, match it to your skin colouring and check your teeth for lipstick before you head into the interview.

Wear It Again

If you are buying a new outfit for an interview, make sure it’s either in separates to enable you to mix and match in the future.

If you opt for a dress, try to find a good transeasonal dress that you can layer both under and over.

These tips can also translate if you run your own business and perhaps perform face to face meetings.

Finally, if you’re still not confident, call the company’s HR department and confirm what you should wear.

Remember that style can showcase your personality and offer you an edge over other competitors who may dress conventionally. Above all it’s about creating an honest and positive perception.

As always, I hope this blog has been useful if you’re off to an interview, best of luck from the Style With Cindy team and if you have any other comments or advice (perhaps you’re a recruiter yourself) I’d love to hear from you in the comments below.