The Dreaded “Business Casual” and the Hazards of the Interview
Congratulations, recent graduate! You’ve put in your time, paid your dues, and walked out of school with a cushy diploma. If you haven’t already locked down your next job (or if you have- congratulations, again!) and aren’t sure what to wear on the first day, don’t worry. At SITEX, you’re with the garment experts, well versed in outfitting people on the job.
If you’re still interviewing, your clothing is the very first impression you’ll make to the people with the power to hire you, so take the time to make sure everything you’re wearing leads them to “yes”. An interview for a high-profile law firm comes with a different dress code than an interview for an Internet startup company, but both demand clothing that is clean and pressed, shoes and bags that aren’t scuffed, and more reserved hair and makeup. Fitting within corporate culture is almost as important as the words on your resume, so if you’re over or under-dressed for an interview, you may not give the impression that you’ll fit in well. As a rule of thumb for all interviews, dress a half-step up more than the typical daily uniform. You can branch out once you’re in the workplace, but keep your clothing simple and streamlined for the interview. During your informational research for the interview, take the time to get an idea of what type of culture your intended workplace possesses and how to dress to fit in.
You’ll also want to wear clothing you’re comfortable in. The so called “power-clothes” will help you feel more confident and transform anything you wear from good to great. Additionally, avoid anything that could be a distraction, such as new shoes that rub or a too tight jacket that doesn’t let you move freely. When you feel comfortable and confident, you are can let your best attributes shine through and are much more likely to succeed in your interview.
“Business Casual” is a term that’s often used to confuse recent college grads or professionals coming from more casual working environment into stressing about what to wear. If you’re told to dress “business casual” for a job interview, don’t be fooled: No sneakers, jeans, or t-shirts, even if the people who already work there are wearing that. They have the job, you don’t, so save those for when you’ve landed the position. When in doubt, match the person interviewing you. The Internet is full of wonderful things, like employee photos, so if you notice that the person you’re having an interview with fancies dark-wash denim, sharp shoes and a blazer in most of those photos, wear the same or slightly dressier.
If you have an interview that takes place via any telecommunication where the interviewer can see you, take the time to get fully dressed. There is nothing worse than having to suddenly stand and reveal your polished look ends with pajama pants. Err on the side of caution and get fully dressed, even if you never have to stand up.
If you do show up at an interview and see you are drastically over or under-dressed, address the fact. That will show executives that you are aware of the culture, and they will respect your honesty.
If you need ideas on where to go for outfits, check out the following sites.
For Gentlemen:
For Ladies:
Elle
SITEX has been outfitting men and women for work since 1961. If you’re ready to provide quality professional work uniforms for your employees contact us today, or download our free eBook all about our garment services.
