Dress for Success
Choose your interview outfit well. It is essential in making a good first impression. Dressing appropriately for the interview will add to your confidence and send a message to the employer that you care.
- Personal appearance does affect an employer's opinion of the applicant.
- Employers believe that the applicant's attitude is reflected in their appearance.
- Check this Washington State University website for great information on dressing for success!!
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Tips for Guys |
Tips for Ladies |
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White or blue long-sleeved shirt AND a tie |
Suit, skirt and jacket or tailored dress |
| Business suit or a sports coat and slacks | Avoid heavy makeup |
| Socks should match your pants | Avoid extreme hairstyles |
| Belt and shoes should match | Limit jewelry |
| Clean-shaven or neatly trimmed beard | Rule of thumb: necklace, earrings, |
| Haircuts are recommended | watch and two rings |
Body Language
- When you walk into the interview and all eyes are focused on you, will your body language say, "I have it together!" Or "Help me!"?
- Offer a firm, dry handshake. Make eye contact. Smile.
- Posture - Hold your head up, suck in your gut and relax your shoulders. Walk with a purpose. Sit with your back firmly against the back of the chair.
- Speak clearly, in an audible level and moderate tone.
- Sit still! Avoid fidgeting and foot tapping.
Materials to bring
- Bring a pen and notepad, extra copies of your resume, a portfolio, directions and contact names, three references typed on a separate paper, a driver's license, and a working permit, for example, a social security card.
| Things To Do | Things NOT To Do |
| Arrive 15 minutes early | Interrupt the interviewer |
| Be polite to the receptionist | Flirt |
| Smile | Be a name-dropper |
| Be enthusiastic and energetic | Act big-headed |
| Be relaxed | Talk too much or too long |
