Candidates

Presentation – What shall I wear?

The most commonly asked question we are asked as recruitment consultants prior to an applicant’s forthcoming interview is, “What shall I wear?” This may surprise some, but it’s a clear indicator that many people realise they may be judged on more than just their interview performance. In an interview, you want your first impression to be a positive one in all respects and the appropriateness of your dress and presentation will almost certainly be taken into consideration, especially if you don’t get it right.

Presenting a professional, polished image is essential and, to err on the safe side, that means dressing in what might be described as a “business smart” style: a relatively conservative, tailored look. This is particularly true if your desired job is managerial or involves any contact with the public or with customers. But even if you are applying for a position based in the laboratory or behind the scenes, you will be expected to be dressed appropriately for an interview. By all means express your individual personality but keep it within safe boundaries. Follow these guidelines and you can’t go wrong.

  • A suit is the norm for both sexes when it comes to interview attire but smart trousers or a smart skirt/dress and co-ordinated jacket are also acceptable.

  • Men should wear a tie.

  • Your general appearance and image should be well groomed, professional and uncontroversial.

  • Hair, hands, clothing and shoes should be clean and tidy looking and jewellery, make-up and cologne should be understated.

  • Tattoos should not be on display.

  • Earrings for men are still not acceptable to everyone, so play it safe and take them out. The same applies to visible piercings anywhere other than in the ears.

  • For the avoidance of doubt, the following are definite no-nos for interviews:

    1. Anything too skimpy or revealing
      Eg strappy vest or halter tops, crop tops, very short skirts, shorts, very low-rise trousers, anything see-through or very low cut.

    2. Anything too casual, sporty or grungy
      Eg jeans, polo shirts, combats, sweats, football/rugby tops, trainers, tennis shoes, cowboy boots, flip flops, large logos, comedy ties or socks, slogan t-shirts, clothing that is torn, distressed, frayed or crumpled.

    3. Shiny/sparkly/evening fabrics
      Eg leather, pvc, satin, rubber, lurex

    4. Beard stubble

    5. Extreme/unnatural hair colour (such as blue, green, purple)

Presentation is not just about appearance, it is also about behaving politely and showing respect for your interviewer. That means no chewing gum, no smoking, no swearing, no telling jokes, no gazing out the window, no interrupting or talking over your interviewer. If you are a smoker, make an effort not to smell of smoke. Avoid over-familiarity. Do not sit down until invited to do so. Men should not remove their jacket unless invited.

Use your common sense. Now is not the time to make an anti-establishment statement with your behaviour or appearance. Once you have the job, you may never have to wear that suit or tie again (until your next interview) but in the meantime, it is better to err on the side of formality.