As the saying goes ‘you’ll never get a second chance to make a first impression’…
When it comes to job interviews, this advice certainly rings true. And a big part of making a positive impression is making sure you look the part when you turn up.
To help you pass the crucial ‘first 30 seconds test’, we spoke to Mark Solomon, co-founder of lovethesales.com, for his top tips on how to nail your job interview outfit:
Tip 1 – Wear a suit that fits (not your dad’s)
The number one faux pas when it comes to wearing suits is wearing one that doesn’t fit you.
Remember: the quality of a suit and how it fits defines you; and picking the right one can really make you stand out from the other interviewees.
So, time to ditch the family heirloom (sorry dad) and invest in a new one. Just be sure not to overlook your measurements to ensure you choose the right size.
Tip 2 – Iron your shirt (properly)
So you’ve got a great fitting suit on and a brand new shirt, but there’s one thing wrong with this picture – your shirt is creased.
And it’s no good frantically flashing your iron over it five minutes before you leave. Creases are simply non-negotiable when it comes to interviews.
Not only will they completely ruin your outfit, they also don’t send out a great message when it comes to your hiring manager. After all, how are you supposed to get yourself organised in your new role if you can’t even organise what you’re wearing?
For those particularly pushed for time (and/or slightly lazy), I’d recommend trying a non-iron shirt. Just make sure you follow the care instructions.
Tip 3 – Keep your footwear formal, but fashionable
Do: Wear a nice pair of Brogues, or Derby shoes. In terms of which colour to go for, select shoes that pair well with the colour of your suit – see our guide below.
Don’t: Wear squared toe shoes, really shiny shoes like patent leather, or shoes that are scuffed.
And always make sure you polish your shoes well before the interview. It really will make a difference.
Tip 4 – Get your workwear in the sales
A new suit, shirt and tie could set you back £500 or more, which can be hard to find when you’re working to a tight budget.
If you shop in the sales you find some great bargains and can easily halve that cost.
Take a look at our workwear section on lovethesales.com, featuring hundreds of brands such as T M Lewin, Armani, Hugo Boss and more, all with up to 80% off.
That way you can make sure you look the part, without breaking the bank.
These tips (navy suit with brown shoes, for example) are clueless – ‘lacking polish’, as one bank said to a hapless young dunce recently. And the bearded fop at the top needs a basic grounding in colour co-ordination.
And for women?!
Hi Ali,
Here are a few articles which might help out:
https://www.reed.co.uk/career-advice/what-to-wear-for-an-interview/
https://www.reed.co.uk/career-advice/what-to-wear-to-an-interview-bloggers-top-tips/
Best of luck with the job search,
Mike
And why is this only tailored to men? Sexist much Reed!
Hi Lucy,
We are working on another version, which is more unisex. We also have a few other articles which cover the basics for both genders:
https://www.reed.co.uk/career-advice/what-to-wear-for-an-interview/
https://www.reed.co.uk/career-advice/what-to-wear-to-an-interview-bloggers-top-tips/
Hope this helps,
Mike
Just to build on the comments, as this article is directed at males, after you get the job remember to maintain the look by continuing to press your suit and shirt and do polish your shoes. Think how much money you spend on these clothes and the continued impression you want to create – these are part of your brand!!