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Dress for success

Dress for success

Even if you say all the right things, you will not get the job if you do not dress appropriately and make the right first impression.

It’s absolutely essential that you create a good impression with the way you look. This is about being smart, well-groomed and conservatively dressed. You should blend in with your dress and appearance, but stand out with your impressive answers and professional manner.

The Rules

  • Black, grey or navy suit and conservative tie for men. Blue or white plain shirt. No bright colours or strong patterns and be especially careful with stripes.
  • Skirt or trouser suit for women. No knee-length boots, short skirts or low-cut tops.
  • Smart leather shoes (black is the best choice), clean and polished.
  • Plain conventional colours are best. No garish colours or patterns.
  • Women: avoid dangly earrings, these can be distracting for the interviewers.
  • Men: no earrings!
  • Be conservative with make-up.
  • Use aftershave and perfume sparingly.
  • Have a handkerchief or tissue handy to wipe a sweaty palm before shaking hands.

 

Employers judge prospective employees in the first few minutes as follows: 55% on how we look, 38% on how we sound and 7% on what we say

Albert Merhrabian

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