Comments on: What to Wear to an Interview

By: Steven

Steven — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 02:47:15 +0000

I remember reading ‘How Would You Move Mount Fuji?’ when it was published in 2003 and being shocked at the comments on interviewees who wore suits. I always felt men had it easy with a simple black suit always being a acceptable option for an interview.

In the book the author comments on not remembering any non sales or business staff who wore a suit to the interview and were offered a position. It’s one thing to have a culture where people dress comfortably but deciding not to hire people who follow social customs? I have always believed wearing a suit and getting a haircut was a sign of respect to those interviewing me.

By: Susan

Susan — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 12:16:46 +0000

The suit pattern should be solid, the suit should be new and pressed. I suggest a good material in tan or medium blue or medium grey, works for women who are looking for a coding position. Black for women who want to be in charge, but please soften the look somehow because we have all seen the all black look and it does not impress anyone anymore. The length should be longish skirt and collared shirt with maybe a fine knit vest to keep your look neat. Be careful of the fine knit blouse because some men think this is a t-shirt. For an accounting position, the blue suit may still be the way to go, but please soften the look somehow, so that you are approachable and friendly to talk with. Don’t overdue the look at all, you want clean smooth lines and simple style that doesn’t interfere with what you have to say. If you look professional, but not over done, you may land the job. I have been to lots of interviews as a contractor and I have suppervised many people whom I meet for the first time, and I know that the clothes do tell me how sincere and professional a person is.

By: Anonymous

Anonymous — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 13:08:34 +0000

I go with the advice to ask the dress code. And if you forgot to ask when the interview was set up, just phone reception and ask. Say “Hi, I’m coming to a job interview today and was wondering what people normally wear into work.” You probably won’t even have to say your name, and the fact that you asked is unlikely to get back to anyone, and if it does, good on you – shows initiative. But if you absolutely can’t find out in advance, then consider wearing clothes that can go either way – such as a smart designer jacket that looks like a suit jacket when you’re sitting behind a desk, or a suit with a trendy shirt that enables you to look casual if you take off your jacket and tie because no one else is wearing suits. If in doubt, err on the smart side. And if you get it wrong, don’t worry. The worst thing to do would be to let your concern about wearing the wrong thing make you come across as someone lacking in confidence.

By: Jens

Jens — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 12:10:11 +0000

Wearing a suit is a smart and very easy thing to do. Other good things such as learning about the company or asking smart questions etc are not as easy.

So, suit up.

By: Trish Anne Murphy

Trish Anne Murphy — Sun, 04 Jan 2009 23:35:22 +0000

I believe dress and clothes DO make a difference in the majority of job interviews. Arriving at an interview in a suit versus jeans or Casual Wear would be more forgiving by most interviewers. Researching the organization prior to interview and having knowledge about their company is smart. It tells them your interested enough to do the homework.

By: Jurgen Appelo

Jurgen Appelo — Sun, 04 Jan 2009 09:23:10 +0000

I’m a CIO and I don’t think dress is important. However, I *do* think it’s important that candidates are interested in the organizations they are visiting. Therefore, they should try to make an estimated guess on how to dress properly for that organization. Wearing a suit when you’re interviewed by an organization where people don’t wear suits shows that you only thought about yourself, and not about the organization. And it’s the same the other way around.