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Dressing for Success

By Shelley

While it's wonderful to think that appearances don't matter, they usually do. In today’s job market it is vital to dress appropriately for job-hunting as those first impressions are critical. Will dressing properly get you the job? Of course not, but it will give you a competitive edge and that positive first impression. If you overdress (which is rare but can happen) or underdress (the more likely scenario), the potential employer may feel that you don't care enough about the job. It is very difficult to overcome a poor first impression, regardless of your knowledge or expertise.

It is often a great idea to make a couple of visits to the employer's office prior to your interview. Don't pay a visit to them on "jeans day". Have a look around at current employees and note what they are wearing. Then, slightly overdress. You are more likely to command respect and get what you want if you are dressed appropriately for your surroundings.

There are a number of guidelines to follow as we ready ourselves for that all-important interview.

1. Dress professionally in a simple, neutral colored, clean and properly pressed outfit. Wearing casual outfits such as jeans and tee shirts must be avoided. Lacy dresses, mini skirts, tight, revealing outfits and neon colors are unacceptable.
2. Shoes must be clean, polished, conservative and well coordinated with your outfit. Sneakers, sandals, and steep high heels are not recommended. I once ran into someone on her way to a job interview. She was wearing fuzzy slippers! I wonder if she got the job?
3. Minimal jewelry. Cover your tattoos and definitely limit piercings to women's ears only. Do not wear a nose ring or tongue jewelry. And don't forget – neutral hosiery for women and dark socks for men.
4. Hairstyles should be simple and neat. This is not a festive occasion so it is unnecessary to have an elaborate hairdo. Men should be properly shaved and trimmed.
5. Clean and trimmed fingernails and well-brushed teeth and fresh breath. Leave the bright, garish nail polish at home. Makeup should be simple, neatly applied and serve to highlight your appearance.
6. Do not wear a perfume or cologne, as many people are allergic. An unscented antiperspirant can be used.
7. No gum, candy, or other objects in your mouth.

Women have more room for creativity in dress than men do, and therefore have more room for mistakes. When deciding on appropriate interview attire, women especially should take note of their body type.

A-Frame: body narrower at the top and wider at the lower hip and upper thigh area.

Balance this frame by widening the shoulders. Choose garments with shoulder pads or sleeve detailing.

V-Frame: shoulders appear to be wider than the hips.

Balance this frame by widening the hip and upper leg area. Garments that have width and fullness in the skirt or pants are more flattering.

H-Frame: body appears to be straight up and down.

Create the illusion of a smaller waist. Do this by choosing either a bloused garment with a flare skirt and belted waist or a straight garment like a chemise dress.

8-Frame or Hour-Glass: figure is curvy and perfectly balanced.

Choose garments that fit the body and emphasize the waist. Avoid cluttering your figure with lots of clothes and layering.

Remember, you are marketing a product -- YOU -- to a potential employer. The impression you make within the first thirty seconds can have an effect on the duration, and the outcome, of your interview. Therefore, when preparing for your interview, keep in mind these few simple dressing tips and you will be well on your way to landing that position.