Many times it’s quite a struggle when job hunting day in day out, but you just need to keep going for however much time and an opportunity will always present itself. Nowadays at least there is faster access to the internet which enables us to get linked to opportunities faster and also reduces time of applying and even getting in touch with the potential employer. However a wise man once said success is when opportunity meets preparedness!

When you finally get that call for a job interview, there are a number of factors you need to prepare. You’ll definitely need to research on the company and even practise how to answer some questions in front of a mirror. 

Many interviewers will ask you to tell them more about yourself and we recently gave tips on how to answer that here. However, today we will share some tips on how to get that perfect look when you want to dress for a job interview, these views are after a survey from a group of interviewers. 

No matter what kind of job interview you are going for, you need to look spectacular and at the same time presentable. How you look on the outside is the first thing that meets the eye and the most important thing to remember is that less is more. Having said that, here are 6 simple tips to help you dress for a job interview.

Be Decent

Whatever you choose to wear must be decent in all ways. For women, the outfit should be a good length just on the knee and not too revealing and for men, the attire should be a good fit. Remember, you never know who is on the panel, it could be people of different ages and backgrounds so better to be safe.

Comfort is key

It is important that you are comfortable both when you are standing and when seated. Once you start adjusting yourself too much, your discomfort is obvious and it could be distracting. 

Colours

A maximum of two colours is enough for an interview outfit. You should dress in colours that are not too bright because that diverts attention. It would be safe to include black as one of the two colours because it is elegant and matches with everything. Also, try to go for a plain look and avoid prints like dots, stripes or flowers which may be distracting. If you must add a third colour it should be the shoes, handbag or a tie for men. Nowadays people are open to blending a lot of colours, but it’s always better to keep it simple.

Accessories & Hair

Handbags and shoes are the accessories that matter a lot. Keep them simple too, you could match both or have one of them in black then the other a different colour; for the ladies make sure the heels are closed and not too high. For men, it’s a great thing to match the colour of your shoes with your belt; either brown or black. Jewellery should be very minimal.

For men a short haircut is the ultimate deal. However, for those with long hair or locks just have a simple ponytail. For ladies, whichever hairstyle you have on, either comb it down or have it in a ponytail, reduce on the hair accessories unless the interview is beautician-based whereby the fancier look could be more appropriate.

Perfume and nail polish

Less is more in this case too. Spray very mild and little perfume, not one that people would smell from a mile away, it may be irritating to some. Also, we suggest either clear or nude nail polish with no patterns.

Confidence

Confidence is the most important attire to put on. Be well prepared and take on those questions with intelligence, honesty and confidence.

All the best in your interviews! 

 Sharon.