How To Dress To Impress For Your Interview

Scientific research proves that people will form an initial impression of you within the first few seconds of meeting you so it is imperative that you dress to impress the interviewing panel. Before you have spoken a single word, the interviewer has already decided what type of person you are by your outward appearance.

It happens each and every day and not just in an interviewing situation where someone crosses our path and immediately a mental image is formed of that particular person.

Of course, it goes without saying that it is not looks but personality that is the most important quality yet first impressions definitely do count and if you have an interview lined up then it most important that you literally do dress to impress.

Dressing smartly gives an impression of success. Therefore not only will it give you the confidence of sailing through the interview but it should also help a prospective employer to quickly assess that this is a person who wishes to become successful and has something to offer the company.

Personal hygiene is all important so ensure that you are freshly bathed or showered and hair is clean and tied back from the face in a neat and tidy fashion if it is long. It is important for the interviewer to see your face properly and also a neat hairstyle gives an air of professionalism and cleanliness. Although facial hair is perfectly acceptable, this should also be clean and well groomed.

Make up should be kept to a minimum as smudged mascara or smeared lipstick can happen at any time and  is never going to impress anyone. A heavily made up face for an interview can be off putting and the interviewer may find it difficult to take you seriously.

Often a suit of either a darker coloured skirt or trousers and a lighter blouse or shirt with a tie or a dress which is knee length are the preferred form of attire with a tailored cut. Obviously nothing too tight or too loose and certainly not too revealing. Modesty and neutrality are key here, however anything that is plain and  simple yet smart should be appropriate.

Interestingly, research shows that navy blue is the preferred colour for impressing an interviewer with orange being the least impressive.

Footwear should be clean, smart and comfortable - definitely no trainers. Although heels are perfectly fine, stilettos should not be worn. As with your main outfit, footwear should be of a neutral colour.

Jewellery and hair accessories should be kept to a minimum as these can be distracting. Perfume and aftershave should be subtle and not overpowering.

It is advised that you plan your outfit at least several days before your interview and to try it on as this will give you the time to make any adjustments.

You should dress as you want to be perceived - a successful professional who any prospective company would be proud of.

Are you looking to secure a new job in Leicester? Why not attend the Leicester Careers Fair taking place at The City Rooms on Thursday 18th August. The UK Careers Fair is the leading provider of recruitment events, career fairs, and job fairs in the United Kingdom, Check out our upcoming careers fair and find the dream job you are aiming for!