HELP LOUIE!
How Do I Dress for an Interview in a Business-Casual World?
Just a few years ago, everyone knew the answer to this question. The standard interview uniform was suit and tie for men, and a suit with a skirt for women. Anyone arriving at work in a new suit was presumed to be interviewing elsewhere that day. But now that workplace dress codes have relaxed, both men and women have more choices when it comes to interview attire.
Does That Mean the Uniform Is Out?
Not necessarily. It's still important to make a good impression. You just face more decisions about how to do that.
How Will I Decide What to Wear to the Interview?
Remember, each company has an individual culture and environment. Although most of my clients are in a Business Casual to Casual environment such as my traditional Mortgage Brokers and even my direct Lenders it's important to find out what the standard is for the company before the interview. When you schedule the interview, ask just what would be appropriate. Or call the human resources department and ask what the company's dress code is. Sometimes an interviewer will tell you what to wear: "We don't dress up here, so a suit is not necessary." Some people actually go to the place where they will be interviewing and stand outside at lunchtime or after work to check out employees' clothes.
If you are interviewing at an actual bank institution or Internet company, it's always best to keep your outfit on the conservative side.
If Not a Suit, Then What Should I Wear?
Now I am not your mother or your hired stylist, but a good rule of thumb that I suggest is to wear something somewhat dressier than what the employees wear to work. Never wear jeans and a T-shirt, especially slogan T-shirts. If you do that…its basically interview suicide.
I don't care if it's FRIDAY CASUAL DAY. While under my payroll and watchful eye, it's Business Casual always unless specifically told by myself or your immediate on-site supervisor. A jacket is always a safe bet for men and women, with slacks or a skirt. Somehow a jacket seems to pull the outfit together and can cover a multitude of figure problems as well. But the suit is still a staple in some professions. Salespeople like Loan Officers and Account Executives for example, polo shirts and some khaki's. That's fine ONCE YOU ARE HIRED. I suggest and prefer the suited look, as with other professionals such as lawyers and traditional bankers. Whatever you decide to wear, make sure it fits properly and is of the best quality you can afford. What seems like a big investment now will pale in comparison when you get the job.
What Do You Think About Women Wearing Pants or a Pantsuit to the Interview?
I say if you can pull it off…GO FOR IT. However, this question is still somewhat controversial. Some hiring managers say women should always wear a skirt. But a recent issue of Biography magazine offers proof the rules are changing. A feature about first ladies shows several presidents' wives, dating back to the 1900s. All the women pictured are wearing skirts and dresses, until Hillary Clinton. Clinton is wearing her now-trademark pantsuit.
What you wear on the outside is the interviewer's picture of you on the inside. Remember that the Reflection you make has a direct Reflection on Yourself, BancForce and most important…ME!
Traditional Couture vs Biz Casual
