Why Is Dress So Crucial For Success?

• First impressions are extremely important!

• Irreversible assumptions are made almost immediately based on a persons’ appearance.

• You want to put your best foot forward and present yourself in a positive light.

5 Tips Everyone Should Know About Dressing Professionally

1. Keep your appearance neat and clean.

2. Clothing should be freshly pressed - no wrinkles!

3. Well groomed nails are important.

4. Wear minimal make-up and jewelry.

5. Neutral body odor is essential (wear an antiperspirant/deodorant, use perfume or other fragrance sparingly)!

Examples of Professional Attire

• Many managers and interviewers make assumptions based on an individual’s shoes.

• This is one way of assessing whether you pay attention to details.

• Shoes should be:• Neat and polished.• Closed toe.• No higher than a 2 inch heal (unless you

are extremely short).

Put Your Best Shoe Forward

• Keep it Conservative

• It’s all in the details

• Basic Behavior

Dressing for the Interview

• It is always best to err on the side of caution.• The most traditional and conservative interview attire for

women is a two piece, matched skirt suit.• Always, always wear a blouse

under your blazer!• A long sleeved, collared shirt or shell

is appropriate.• Make sure your ensemble still looks

complete without your blazer (in case you have the option to take it off).

Keep it Conservative

Your First Suit: Choosing a Color

• Navy blue is a good color for a “starter” suit.

• This is a versatile color that can be dressed up or down, depending on the situation and job.

• Navy is considered a professional and powerful color, but is not as bold as black.

• Buy the nicest suit you can afford.

• Put quality over quantity – a well chosen suit will last you several years into your career.

• A cheap suit is easy to spot:• Made with less desirable materials

like rayon-poly blends.• Larger, less flattering cuts.

Your First Suit: Choosing a Suit that will Grow with You

• Have your suit professionally tailored! This ensures:• The suite looks appropriate on you.• You will feel comfortable and self-confident in your suit.

• Dress like you already have the job you want.

• Remember: a carefully chosen suit will last you well into your career. It is an investment worth the extra money!

Your First Suit: Tips & Tricks

• Hair• Simple style

– You don’t want to distract the interviewer with obnoxious hair.

– They should notice you for your skills and experiences, not your hair.

• Out of your face

• Nylons• A must with any interview

outfit – skirt or pantsuit!• Skin tone or black colored are

most appropriate.

It’s all in the Details

• Accessories• Don’t overdo it!• It’s best to choose 1 or 2 simple accessories like a watch

and stud earnings.

• Portfolio vs. Purse• Opt for a sharp, professional looking portfolio instead of

your purse.• Choose a good quality portfolio with compartments for keys

or lipstick.• Carry copies of your resume and a pad for note taking.

It’s all in the Details: Final Touches

1. Arrive early.2. Visit the Restroom.

• If time permits, this should be your first stop.• Check yourself in the mirror to make sure your appearance

is professional and put together.

3. Notice the Office Atmosphere.• Atmosphere can tell you a lot

about a company you may not learn in the interview!

4. Send a Thank You.• After the interview, always send a

thank you to your interviewer and any others who met, helped, or hosted you.

Interview Day is Here

• Follow Company Policy.• Your first reference point is the

employee manual.• When in doubt – ask your supervisor or

a member of Human Resources!

• Warning: business casual means different things in different companies!

• Casual dress ranges from coordinated skirt/pant sets to khakis and polo’s.

• Business casual does not mean jeans or tennis shoes.

Dressing to Impress: Once you’re Hired

• The primary goal behind “Dressing for Success” is to feel good about the way you look and projecting a positive image.

• Confidence with the way you look translates into a positive attitude and body language.

• Proper dress leaves an immediate impression and gives you the confidence to display the proper nonverbal messages that will help in the interview process and with your work in the organization.

The Goal of Dressing for Success

What’s WRONG with thisPicture?

Unkempt Hair & Unnatural Makeup.

What’s WRONG with thisPicture?

No blouse under blazer.

What’s WRONG with thisPicture?

Too much skin showing.

What’s WRONG with this Picture?

Slit in Dress too High. Dress too Revealing.

What’s WRONG with this Picture?

Shorts aren’t acceptable.