An important, but often neglected part of preparing for an
interview is "dressing for success". Here are some
top tips:
Dress on the conservative side. It is always best to dress
to suit the employer or the type of business. A suit may
be best for men; and a suit or a sophisticated looking dress
for women. Be clean and pressed. It is better to overdress
than underdress for the interview.
Make sure your hair is freshly washed and is neat. If
you have a beard or moustache, make sure it is clean and
neatly trimmed; crumbs will turn off any employer!
Make sure you are freshly bathed. Use a deodorant. You
will undoubtedly be a little nervous, and it's human nature
to perspire in stressful circumstances.
Use mouthwash and dental floss. Smells of garlic, onion,
tobacco, and coffee can accumulate in an enclosed office.
Do not chew gum. Do not drink alcohol or smoke prior
to (or during!) the interview.
Make sure your shoes are newly polished, by the way,
wear shoes, not sandals.
Fingernails should be clean and well manicured.
If the skin on your hands tends to be dry, put on some
moisturiser. It is not pleasant to shake hands with someone
with dry scaly skin!
Do not wear cologne, aftershave, or perfume or wear very,
very sparingly. Many places are scent-free these days.
Wear a smile!
When reading the list did you think "I'm going to dress
however I like! They'll just have to take it or leave it."
Full marks for honesty, but it won’t put food on the table.
Besides once you have the job you may have the freedom to express
your personal style; until then, avoid creating unnecessary
strikes against yourself.
