The Job Interview – How to Stand Out in a Sea of Black Suits
Most people know that you need to wear a suit to an interview, but why is that almost everyone chooses a black suit? The interviewer should remember you (in a good way), which is difficult to accomplish if you’re dressed like everyone else –in the ever popular black suit. There’s nothing wrong with black, but here are a few ways to make your attire (and hopefully your overall interview) more memorable.
Tips for women
- Wear a blouse, shell, or a cami in a beautiful color. It doesn’t have to be bright, but you should opt for something other than white, cream, black or grey. Wearing color brightens up your face, which makes everyone look better.
- A pattern is also a great way to add some interest to a basic outfit, but keep it small. Choose a pattern that’s no larger than your fist.
- You should wear jewelry during an interview, but again, keep it tasteful and to a minimum. A unique necklace or a beautiful pair of earnings is best, but make sure the earnings don’t dip below the jaw line. Accessories always enhance your personal style, but stay away from jewelry that makes noise. The last thing you want to do is distract the interviewer.
- Shoes say more about your ensemble than anything else. Try a pair of patent leather shoes, as they are easy to keep clean (with Windex of all things) and add a bit of texture to an outfit. Closed pointy or rounded-toe shoes are best while square-toed shoes are dated. Make sure that your shoes are clean and in good shape, even after a long winter.
Tips for men
- Try a tie in a bold pattern. Or, just wear a dress shirt if the interview or field is a bit more conservative (such as computer programming or graphic design).
- For men, it’s all in the little details such as a French cuff shirt. This always looks great and shows that you’re dressing for the job you want.
- If it’s your style and you feel comfortable pulling it off, try adding a pocket square to your outfit. It’s an unexpected but still presentable and tasteful way of making a positive statement.
- For men, there are two definitive fashion rules you should always follow. Your belt should match your shoes, and your socks should match your trousers.
- Make sure your shoes are shined and in top condition, especially after the winter. Shoes should also never been too casual (e.g., chunky). Opt for a sole that doesn’t extend too far beyond the circumference of the shoe. Shoes should be sleek and not clunky (such as Doc Martens).
Injecting a few small changes into the classic black suit ensemble will make you stand out among the other candidates. Your style of dress conveys what type of employee you might be, which is important when companies are looking for creative, detail-oriented employees who will make a positive contribution to the firm. Use these tips to give yourself the edge you need in this very competitive job market.
By: Noelle Cellini
2-13-2010
Noelle, founder and president of My Best Foot Forward, has been working with men and women for the past five years, helping them organize their closets and identify their sense of style. Follow her on Twitter at twitter.com/NoelleCellini and her web site, www.mybest-footforward.com.
