Ace Your Interview: Know The Do's And Don'ts Before Choosing Your Interview Attire

You applied for your dream job and then you get the call for an interview. Nervous? Don’t be!

We know that for most people, job interviews are a bit difficult. Aside from preparing for that part, do you know what can cause a lot of additional stress? Well, deciding what to wear for the special day!

During the recruitment process, your most important aim is to impress the recruiter or hiring manager, right? In order to do that, you must make your first impression count and this certainly begins with your dress and grooming.

Your interview attire basically depends on the sector in which you are applying for. But there are some basic do’s and don’ts that you need to adhere to, even if there's no dress code in your dream office! Why? Because your attire will give some insight to the interviewer into who you are and determine whether you are a good fit for their company.

So, to help you to get your dream job, we have listed some do's and don'ts that you must follow when selecting your interview attire. Read on to ace your interview!

Do’s And Don’ts Regarding Clothes

• Do try your outfit beforehand to ensure it fits well and has no noticeable fabric flaws. Also, make sure that you are comfortable in walking, sitting, and standing in your chosen outfit.
• Opt for an outfit that is simple but classic, polished, and professional. Wear buttoned shirts that fit well and are of the correct size.
• Do invest in some modern and fashion-forward clothes to wear to your interview.
• Try to dress in layers. Following this tip, you can be comfortable regardless of the office temperature.
• Avoid large or intricate patterns like Polka dots, Stripes. Also, do not go for metallic or sparkly fabrics.
• Do wear length-appropriate clothing. This basically means that if you are wearing a dress or skirt, please make sure that it is knee-length. Further, do ensure that your shirt is full-length to your waist.
• Do wear clean clothes that are ironed.
• Also, do ensure that there are no stains, wrinkles, or stale smell in your clothes.
• Don’t forget to empty your pockets as bulging keys or tinkling coins don’t add to your first impression.
• Try to avoid loud and bright coloured clothes as they can be off-putting. Instead, choose plain and solid colours like black, gray, or white.

Do’s And Don’ts Regarding Accessories

• Do wear understated accessories.
• Don’t wear dangling earrings. Instead of wearing big hoops or chandelier earrings, opt for classic studs.
• Avoid wearing flashy bracelets, and heavy necklaces.
• Don’t wear scarves with large or intricate prints and patterns.
• Don’t opt for the jewellery that jingles constantly, it can obstruct your conversation with the interviewer.
• Pay attention to detail and avoid wearing any body piercings.
• Don’t wear baseball caps or sunglasses.
• Avoid wearing anklets as they can make your feet a focal point and you surely want the interviewer to concentrate on your face and what you are saying.
• Do opt for a small structured purse instead of a large floppy bag. Also, avoid denim or straw material, they can look very unprofessional.
• Avoid having a disorganized bag, it doesn’t set a nice first impression when you are haphazardly searching through your bag in order to find something.

Don't miss:Perfect Answers To Common Interview Questions

Do’s And Don’ts Related to Beauty

• Don’t wear an excessive amount of makeup. We know that you want to look your best on your special day but loading on cosmetic products is not the ideal way to go about it.
• Rather than going overboard with dark eyeshadow, bright lipstick, or heavy foundation, go for an understated makeup look in natural tones. For achieving this look, just stick with a light coat of mascara, a touch of powder and blush, and some tinted lip balm.
• Make sure that your nails are clean and manicured. Also, opt for a tasteful shade of nail polish.
• Your hair should be neatly combed and styled.
• Do keep your hair off of your face as constantly flicking your hair out of the way can be a conversation-killer.
• Don’t overdo the use of perfume, cologne, and any body mist or spray. You never know if your interviewer might have an allergy to some scent.

Don't miss:Post Interview Etiquette: Tips To Help You Get That Dream Job

Do’s And Don’ts Regarding Footwear

• First and foremost, do invest in a pair of smart business-wear shoes or heels.
• Prefer closed-toe shoes and opt for medium to low-heeled. For instance, you can wear a pair of black pumps.
• Don’t wear very high-heeled footwear as you should be able to walk comfortably and appear confident.
• Also, make sure your shoes are clean and well-polished.
• Avoid wearing uncomfortable shoes, they will distract you from giving your best answers.
• No matter how clean and new your sandals and athletic shoes are, don’t wear them.
• Most importantly, never wear brightly coloured and trendy shoes. They can certainly become a distraction.

Are you preparing for an interview? What do you think about these tips? Do share your thoughts with us on our Facebook page. For more such stories, stay tuned to HerZindagi!