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PASS THE DRESS TEST

Initial impressions will have a strong effect on the rest of the interview, since many
people form quick first impressions.  Your grooming, posture and clothing can affect the
image of you as a potential employee.  Don’t let your appearance cast a negative slant on
the interview.

1. Wear clothes you have worn before, including shoes.  The last thing you want is 
     to be uncomfortable.  Likewise, check that your interview outfit still fits well.

2. For most positions, the safest wardrobe is conservative.  Avoid extremes, fads,
    frilly clothes, overly bold or busy patterns, severely tailored suits, loud colors or
    poor color combinations.  Think IBM.  It may seem boring; however, you want to 
    be remembered for your qualifications and not your looks.

3. Try to have at least one quality, well fitting outfit made of natural material or
     blend and a good pair of shoes.  Go for quality and not quantity.

4. Before the interview day, make sure your clothes are freshly cleaned and pressed.
    Rumpled clothes, frayed collars, unpolished shoes, stains, etc. will create that
    unfavorable first impression.  You don’t want to suggest that your work is messy,
    unpolished or inappropriate.  Have an extra pair of stockings ready, if needed.

5. Avoid excessive jewelry, too much make-up and fragrances, open-toe shoes 
    and sexy, tight clothes on an interview.  Again, you want the interviewer looking into
    your eyes and not at your clothes.

6. Make sure your nails are clean and filed and remember to clean your eyeglasses.
 
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