Research shows that first impressions are made within 7 seconds. Collegiates, this means you have seconds to impress your potential employer. They will likely form a quick judgment of you before you even get the chance to sit down. Before you can wow them with your extensive resume or confident ability to tackle questions, you need to first capture their attention with the perfect outfit. That’s where we come in. Her Campus IUP has listed several tips below to help you put the best foot forward and make an awesome first impression.
Dress Pants
As comfortable as our jeans and leggings are, they do not belong in a business setting such as a formal interview. Instead, invest in a pair of gray or black dress pants. You may find black pants are the most flattering and will go with the most of your outfits. Make sure they are an appropriate length and fit comfortably (not too tight or too loose).
Invest in a Blazer
Blazers are a must-have for every college getting ready to interview and join the workforce. It’s a simple article of clothing that can significantly impact your entire outfit. Make sure it’s tailored enough to fit well and look professional. And also you want to ensure the blazer goes well with the pants, skirt, or dress you decide to wear.
Hell on Heels
If you’re capable of walking in them, heels are a must-wear. Even if your heel is super small you should still try and opt for them over a pair of flats. That little bit of a boost will not only give you more confidence, but it’ll elude your potential and professionalism to your interviewer. Just make sure you wear a pair that is appropriate for a classy business event and not a nightclub.
Say ‘Yes’ to a Dress
Believe it or not, wearing a dress to an interview is totally okay! So, if a pair of dress pants and blazer makes you feel stuffy and uncomfortable, go with a dress instead. Just make sure you keep your dress modest and appropriate in length. Dresses or skirts should hit an inch or two above your knee. Anything shorter than that save for going out and anything longer needs to get hemmed. It’s probably best to avoid wearing a sleeveless dress or top as many companies have strict dress codes and deem sleeveless wear as unprofessional.
Au Naturale
An interview is probably not the time to experiment a new style or makeup look. Stick to natural looking make up and hair so that it complements the beautiful features you already have. You don’t want the interviewer to assume you’re hiding behind your makeup so be confident and rock a natural look. If you haven’t mastered the sock bun yet- trying it the morning of an interview may not be the best idea. So, go with a hairstyle that feels natural and comfortable to you and will give the interviewer the best impression possible.
Keep it Simple
Stick to a nice watch, earrings and a simple necklace. This isn’t the time to whip out your blinged-out jeweled necklace or accessories. You want to keep the focus on your accomplishments and what you have to say, not your jewelry. The interviewer should be focused on you as a whole and not get distracted on your jewelry (you do not need jewelry to shine).
As you go off to your next interview, just keep these tips in mind. Remember to take deep breaths and relax as you’ll do great. And, most importantly, remember to dress for success and make your first impression count.