Confidence is essential to workplace success. And what we wear is innately linked to our self-confidence. How so? Consider the following tips on how to dress for a job interview or any professional situation.
If we don’t like what we’re wearing, this will inevitably impact self-esteem, and in the workplace, any lack will be noticed by others. And if others feel that our attire is slovenly or otherwise inappropriate, this will affect how they treat us. Our confidence is further deflected, and a vicious cycle begins.
Whether you need to break out of a less-than-professional mold or simply want to brush up your signature style, consider the following tips to help you dress for success.
How to Dress for a Job Interview: First Impressions Matter
Landing the big interview. Meeting a new client. Making a presentation at a board meeting. All of these situations involve making an impression – and your appearance is the first piece of data assimilated by new acquaintances.
Do first impressions really matter? Yes. According to a 2018 study commissioned by the Dollar Shave Club, we have about 27 seconds to make that first impression count.
Over two-thirds of people will form an impression of you before you’ve even had a chance to speak. That means your appearance and body language are key.
The same study found that over 80 percent of people “feel more positively about someone who seems to be confident.” Other important points were friendly smiles, good manners, eye contact, a pleasant smell, and good communication.
Make It Fit
We’re not talking clothing sizes here. To be successful in your professional interactions, you should ensure that your attire fits the situation at hand. In what way?
Professions differ in what attire is expected and in what is needed to get the job done. Employees of Clarksville, Tennessee’s F&M Bank, for example, wear semi-formal apparel, with the exception of an occasional “casual Friday.” At the nearby Tennova hospital, however, you’d be more likely to see scrubs and supportive footwear. On a construction site, hard hats, hi-vis, and steel-toed boots are the norm.
Whether applying for a new job or going about your daily work, seek to understand the culture of your workplace. Be aware of any dress codes that may be in place, and adhere to them. Take cues on what is acceptable by observing those in positions of leadership.
Additionally, keep safety in mind. Loose clothing, open-toed shoes, or dangling jewelry can pose a hazard in factory or construction settings, when working with power equipment, or in similar situations. Make sure that any required personal protective equipment – hearing and eye protection, gloves, and the like – are always close at hand.
Keep It Professional
According to Inc. magazine, “The ultimate goal of your work attire is to give yourself credibility. The fastest way to lose it is by dressing provocatively.” This applies to both men and women. Avoid clothing that is too tight or purposely revealing, or that allows undergarments to become visible.
The flip side of this issue is clothing that is too loose or unfitted. Especially when purchasing suits, jackets, or slacks, be prepared to have your clothing altered and fitted to your frame. Don’t be afraid to ask the sales rep at your local department or specialty store for help in selecting garments suited to your body type.
Tip: keep a blazer or sports jacket hanging in an office closet. You’ll then be prepared to look professional for any last-minute or unexpected meetings.
There is a not-so-old adage that says, “Dress for the job you want to have, not the job you have now.” Don’t be afraid to outdress your competition
The Recap
To make a good impression:
- Smile
- Wear clothing that is clean and unwrinkled, appropriate to the situation
- Avoid overly casual attire, such as t-shirts or ripped clothing
- Aim for professional, not provocative
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One part Lois Lane, one part Jimmy Olsen, one part Johnboy Walton, and a bit of that Clark Kent secret identity thing thrown in for good measure.
Cara Siera is a freelance writer and photographer with a passion for travel and exotic cuisine. Join Cara, her husband Marc, and one very spoiled German Shepherd on their next great adventure.