How to Dress for a Job Interview

Job interviews can be nerve racking for anyone, no matter how insignificant they may seem. College students often have a hard time figuring out what to wear for a job interview because they don't want to come off as too formal. It would be a little weird to show up to an interview at McDonald's in a three piece suit, right? There is a thin line between formal and professional, and you have to try to move towards the professional side. Doing so will guarantee your success in a job interview. Here are some tips to help you dress appropriately for the next job you apply to. Follow them if you want to look your best.

Job Interview Attire for Men

If you are going to an interview at a fast food restaurant or a retail store, you should be able to just wear dark wash jeans and a nice shirt. You can wear khakis or even dress slacks, but that may not be necessary. The only reason you would have to do that is if you are applying for a pretty prestigious position. Then you might as well bring out the blazer, the tie, the button up, and anything else you would want to wear. If you choose to go with jeans, make sure they don't have any holes or stains in them. That will look unprofessional no matter what. Top everything off with some neutral tennis shoes, and you should be good to go.

Job Interview Attire for Women

Women are a little different than men because they have the option to either wear pants or a skirt, depending on what they want to do. If you are going to wear a skirt, make sure it is long enough for the workplace. You're not going to land a job just by showing off your junk (I hope). Otherwise, you can wear dark wash jeans or dress slacks. Do not wear shorts or capris under any circumstances, and avoid shirts that show off too much cleavage. That could come across as trashy in the wrong setting.

Heels always look more professional for a job interview, so throw some of those on. Put on a nice top that shows your confidence and your fashion sense at the same time. You can wear jewelry, but try not to make it over the top. You want your personality to shine through, not the giant flower on your neck. Whether you're applying to be a clerk or applying to be a forensic pathologist, you need to make sure that the employer can see who you are in spite of your clothing.

Job Interview Attire for Skype

A lot of people never have to actually go into a job interview. They just have to pop on Skype and talk to their potential employers online. I have landed several jobs like this, and I have landed even more through just instant messaging alone. I work online though, so I supposed I don't fit the norm. If you have a job interview through video chats, just make sure that you are wearing something nice on top. The person on the other side will never see what you have on down below. I usually put on a nice T-shirt and maybe some earrings, but I have interviewed in just a tank top. It all depends on the kind of work I am trying to get.

Plan your wardrobe around the type of job you want to get, and you will have the best possible chance at landing a position in the future.