Most importantly, if you dress well, it will do wonders for your confidence, and that will be invaluable when youre trying to impress potential bosses. Planning your outfit is an essential component when preparing for that big interview, so to help you out, weve come up with some tips to ensure you look your best so you can worry about snapping up that dream job you deserve!
Dress appropriately for the job youre going for
That is, make sure you fit the image the company presents. The corporate world has changed, and women are no longer limited to wearing suits in all workplaces, but a lot of professions still require professional attire. If this is the case, it is a good idea to stick with a crisp shirt and team it with some well-pressed black pants or a skirt and classic heels. This is your fail safe combo. Then, to show off a bit of your personality, add a cute scarf like the one from Max below, or accessorise with tasteful jewellery.
Max scarf
Or, if youre like me and cant stand boring corporate attire, but you must wear it add a personal touch. Try a cute pussy-bow shirt or subtle print. I love this lace knee-length skirt from Carlson just the right amount of conservative without being boring!
Carlson skirt
If the job youre going for calls for a more laid-back or casual look, dont wear jeans. They are just too casual, and youll look like you havent thought about presenting yourself tidily. Wear a pretty dress over leggings with heels, and perhaps a blazer thrown over the top. That way youll still look cool and casual, but like you have made an effort and understand the importance of presenting yourself well. Its always better to be over-dressed than under-dressed!
This cute dress from Augustine International would be perfect
Be conservative
Keep your hemlines at an appropriate length, and dont leave too many buttons undone. This might sound simple and obvious, but you would be amazed at how many women dont follow this rule. If your dress is mid-thigh, or youre wearing a tunic top this is ok as long as you wear leggings or tights to cover your legs. When dressing for a corporate environment, knee-length skirts are always best.
Trelise Cooper suit
Dont forget the details
Ensure your nails are tidy, and polish isnt chipped. Keep your hair tidy if its a corporate environment, I would recommend putting it up. If its a more casual workplace wearing your hair down is ok, but ensure it looks like you have done your hair! And of course, make sure your clothes are clean and pressed. Keep makeup simple a subtle eye and glossy lip are good; you dont want it to look over the top. Keep the dramatic smoky eye for when you go out celebrating when you get the job!
Neutral nails work well
Heels, not flats
Some people might not agree, but in my opinion, heels just make you look more dressed up. And ensure your shoes are clean and tidy! Dont wear old worn out shoes.
Try classic black heels like these ones from Overland
Use your judgement
There are always exceptions to the rule, so use your judgement and research the companys philosophy and background. For example, if youre going for a job in the fashion world, then obviously you have more scope to express yourself and to show off your fashionable side, by wearing some fabulous shoes and the latest trends. If youre going for a job at a law firm, then its likely the more conservative you go, the better.
So thats your outfit sorted now youre one step closer to wowing them at that big interview!
Article by Natalie Cosgrove