Interview Style: Recession does not mean fewer expectations.

In this economy, securing employment can be a long, tedious and somewhat arduous process (trust me, we know first hand). We have come to realize the hardest part in the job search process is obtaining an interview. Once an interview is granted, the task of securing a job is relatively less burdensome.


Here are some tips to make sure you look good for your interview so you can land the job of your dreams.

For a Conservative interview....

Remember to ALWAYS WEAR A SUIT! (No exceptions!) The business suit is a traditional symbol of class, sophistication, and social intellect. Even if your interviewer does not ask you to wear a suit, wear one unless you are told otherwise. It never hurts to overdress for an interview. To be underdressed for an interview, however, is tacky and unacceptable. Forget the Suit, Forget the Job.

What kind of Suit: Traditionally a black suit is always a safe choice to wear for an interview because it is bold and demands presence, but also exudes simplicity (hence the phrase “Keep it Simple Stupid”). Many other candidates, however, will also choose to be predictable and wear a black suit on the day of your interview. Consequently, it may not be a bad idea to consider wearing a navy blue or a light grey suit to prevent you from looking like your competitor’s double mint twin.

WARNING: If you choose to wear a colored suit other than black, remember sophistication is key. Steer clear from any patterned or striped suits which may otherwise be interpreted as an unnecessary distraction.

Other things to remember:

Size does matter: Make sure your suit fits your body. This doesn’t mean you have to get a designer suit from Zara or Calvin Klein (even though their suits are amazing!). You can purchase a suit from Men’s Warehouse or Macy’s and get them to tailor the suit for you. It is not that expensive, and can make the suit appear as though it was designed for you.

Dress Shirt: should be long sleeved, white or lightly colored

Tie: A tie in a suit is more important than you think. Think of dress ties as women think about purses. Yes, they are only accessories; however, much can be assumed about a man’s personality, taste, and presentation by the tie he wears. When in doubt, wear a conservative good quality silk tie.

Socks: Wear dark dress socks; this is not negotiable

Shoes: Wear good quality black or brown dress shoes. Cheap-looking dress shoes make the suit look cheap and consequently, make you look unprofessional. You can buy some good but reasonably priced dress shoes at an outlet mall, Ross, Marshalls, or Aldo. Remember, there are many good quality shoes being sold in clearance racks across the country.

Jewelry: Wear a limited amount of jewelry. If you can help it, don’t wear any jewelry at all.

Hair: Get a haircut before your interview. If you keep your hair neatly trimmed, it can help you look and feel better about your appearance. Be careful shaving before an interview though. Some men have unattractive skin reactions to some shaving creams and aftershaves.

Belt: Wear a belt that most closely matches your shoes

For a casual interview, the rules are a little easier to follow...

Wear an outfit that is casual but still communicates that you understand that the job position is to be taken seriously. Therefore, consider wearing an ironed pair of khakis, slacks or jeans with an ironed dress shirt (that you may tuck in with a belt). You may opt to wear loafers over dress shoes if you prefer. (No sneakers please) Remember not to wear anything that can be considered distracting (i.e. jewelry, obnoxious slogans or pictures, bright colors, etc.) Sophistication is VITAL.

Good luck.