Dressing for a Successful Interview

Do you realize that the interview can be over even before you open your mouth to speak? A future employer will begin to make a decision about you within the first 7 seconds of an interview. That's why when it comes to job interviews the saying, "you never get a second chance to make a first impression," becomes even more important. If there is one outfit in your wardrobe that you will spend money on than it's this one.

For both men and women, when it comes to dressing for an interview than expect to be conservative. That may be hard to do if you are used to wearing bright flashy clothing but the task here is to get the job.

Men's Attire

Suit - It is always best to choose a dark color suit. If possible avoid black because it can sometimes come off as unapproachable. The best color for a suit is a dark navy blue, which symbolizes loyalty, seems to be the color that wins the most interviews. Other colors to consider are Gray which is the next most successful color and dark brown which has an earthy feel which tends to promote open discussions.

Choose a plain white shirt because it symbolizes cleanliness and it also goes with everything.

Tie-a red tie symbolizes passion and strength. It is often recommended as an accent to the navy suit.

Belt

Dark socks, conservative leather shoes

Make sure to get a haircut and limit the amount of facial hair as this looks best for an interview.

Women's Attire

Suit-again this should be a dark color. The best color for this suit would be dark navy blue or gray. Be careful of the length of the suit. It must be long enough for you to sit comfortably. In this case, it would be appropriate to err on the conservative side.

Coordinating solid shirt

Neutral pantyhose with no runs and conservative heels - be careful to avoid shoes that are extremely high or have a clunky heel.

When it comes to makeup, be careful not to apply it too heavily. An employer wants to see you and not the makeup.

For both men and women it's important that you don't wear perfume or cologne. Many people are allergic to certain smells and you can't always predict who they are. You don't want to lose an interview because your perfume or cologne is distracting.

Also, when it comes to jewelry, less is more. Don't wear flashy jewelry. It's better to wear fewer and smaller pieces. Again you don't want the interviewer to become distracted by your jewelry.

Another big thing to avoid is chewing gum or bringing coffee to an interview.

Also leave the cell phone in the car. You don't want to risk getting a call at the wrong moment.