So, you are fully prepared for your job assessment and interview. You have read up well, practiced some tests (free tests below) and have a good idea of what you want to say and ask during the interview. But what the hell do you put on ?! What’s the right dress code for the interview? With the tips below you can prevent a clothing crisis.
Search for photos.
Every company has its own dress code, sometimes this even varies per department. This can make it difficult for you as an applicant to decide what to wear. The solution: look for photos! Search the website of the company, or enter the name of the company in Google Images. You often come across a number of photos of employees in this way. You can then use these photos as a guideline for your outfit during the job interview. Is one dressed in a very businesslike manner or is it allowed to be more casual? Take a good look at the photos, what is striking?
Don’t wear anything distracting.
This tip is especially important in the more business sector. Try to keep your clothes simple and formal here. Therefore, avoid clothing with a striking design or text. Women in this sector should not wear a short (above the knee) skirt and a shirt or blouse with a deep neckline is often seen as distracting. In addition, it is wise to not wear much aftershave, perfume or makeup.
Use your ambition as an inspiration.
When you wear something that matches your ambition, you often feel more confident. This is the impression that you create during the job interview. Do you have a specific position in mind (which you hope to reach via this job, for example), then dress accordingly! As the old saying goes “Dress for the job you want, not the job you have.”
The small things matter.
As the saying goes, “The devil is in the details.” This certainly also applies to your clothing. Polish your shoes, pluck any dirt or loose threads, iron your clothes and check that there are no holes in them. You could have put on the perfect outfit, but if it looks sloppy it gives the impression that you are not neat and organised in general. On the other hand, a simple outfit that is well manicured and properly ironed gives the impression that you are well put together irrespective of your personal circumstances.
A few final tips:
For the men …
- Try to save that black suit for funerals. Dark blue is a better choice. Dark blue is associated with tranquility and reliability. Anthracite is also a good choice. This is a neutral color that is often associated with luxury. If the sector is somewhat less businesslike (for example in healthcare or education) you can also use lighter colors.
- A pinstripe radiates authority and makes you taller.
- Also pay attention to which color tie you wear. A blue tie exudes openness. On the other hand, a red tie gives the impression of dominance.
- If you wear a suit, it does not necessarily have to be from an expensive or well-known brand. More importantly,it should fit well and not worn be out.
And for the women!
- In most business sectors you are always expected to wear tights. This also applies to extremely hot days!
- If you want to look friendly, or if you are applying for a job where you often work with people (for example in healthcare or education), it is wise to choose clothes with a lighter color and a soft fabric (think of linen) or wool).
- Taller people often radiate more authority. If you are not naturally tall, heels can help you with this. However, avoid stiletto heels, these are often considered too sexy for the workplace.
Do you feel like you’re not able to reach the interview stage of the selection process often enough? Click below to practice some assessment tests to improve your chances next time.