Dressing appropriately for a job interview can make a significant impact on a man’s first impression. The following dress code guidelines can help men dress for success and make a positive impression on their potential employer.
Suit Selection
The ideal suit color for an interview is navy blue or dark blue, preferably over gray or charcoal gray. Brown is also acceptable, but it is not recommended for the first interview. The darker the suit, the more authority it carries. However, a man should never wear black to an interview, unless he is applying as an undertaker. A two-piece suit is acceptable, as is a three-button single-breasted jacket. The most crucial factor is that the suit fits well and is of good quality. The trousers should fit comfortably at the waist, and a slimmer fit is preferred.
Shirt Selection
A man at an interview should always wear a long-sleeved shirt in white, cream, or pale blue. Monograms are not recommended for the first interview. If you tend to perspire often, cotton shirts are the way to go, professionally cleaned and starched. The higher the cotton content, the better the shirt will look. Ensure that your shirt fits the neck properly and that the sleeve cuff ends just at the wrist. All your interview clothes should be professionally cleaned and pressed and ready to go.
Tie Selection
Ties that are cheap-looking do not give off a good first impression. A pure silk tie makes the most powerful professional impact, has the best finish and feel, and is easiest to tie well. The tie should complement your suit, not match it. No outlandish, flamboyant ties are necessary. The length of the tie should be extended to your trouser belt.
Shoe Selection
Shoes should be brown or black leather. No other materials or colors are acceptable. Socks should complement the suit, blue, black, gray, or brown. A briefcase is a symbol of authority, which makes a strong professional statement. Brown or burgundy are the colors of choice.
Jewelry and Grooming
As with women, men’s jewelry should be kept to a minimum. No visible body piercing or tattoos -if you can help it. This clean-cut, well-manicured image says a lot about a professional man. He should smell wonderful, have a nicely trimmed hair cut, and appear clean and crisp. Good luck.
