Different companies and industries have different norms in regard to business dress. For example, a financial analyst at an investment firm may not wear the same work attire as a computer engineer at a small start-up internet company. Likewise, a journalist's work clothing may be far different from that of an agricultural sales representative. The majority of organizations in all industries, however, have very similar expectations when it comes to interview attire. The standard protocol is professional dress, which means a conservative, well-tailored suit. Although a business suit is not always the everyday work attire for an organization, recruiters expect candidates to look their most professional during a job interview.

In an interview, you want to impress a recruiter with your skills, accomplishments and potential. First impressions are lasting impressions. If you are not "dressed the part" for the interview, you may never have the opportunity to accomplish the ultimate goal of proving yourself capable of the job. Instead, you will be working throughout the interview to counteract the negative impression made by your attire.

It is always best to err on the side of conservative dress. Your clothing and accessories should not attract so much attention that they are distractions to the true purpose of the interview. You do not want the recruiter to remember you for the fact that you wore white socks or too much perfume.

As mentioned above, clothing standards differ by company. It is, therefore, difficult to prescribe the "perfect" interview attire to match all occasions. You should always research a company and its culture to learn more about its dress code. Below are standardized tips, for men and women, which should be strongly considered as you prepare for your interview.

   

Interview Attire for Women Professional Pant or Skirt Suit Navy or charcoal gray are the preferred suit colors, but black, hunter green, or deep purple are acceptable within certain industries. White, off white or light blue cotton or silk blouse with conservative necklines and hidden or conservative buttons. Low to medium leather heel with closed toe. Neutral hosiery. Matching scarf is acceptable, but should be understated. Moderate amount of jewelry or accessories. A general rule is to wear no more than 13 accessories, including scarf, belt, jewelry, buttons, etc. No more than 1 ring on each hand. Professional briefcase or portfolio instead of backpack or purse. Minimal makeup and perfume. Trimmed fingernail with conservative color, if any. Neat hairstyle with hair pulled back from face. Remove body piercing, except for one conservative earring in each ear. Cover tattoos.

Interview Attire for Men Single-breasted navy or charcoal gray two-piece suit. A subtle stripe or pattern is acceptable. White, long-sleeved oxford cloth shirt. Maroon or red silk tie with small conservative pattern. Dark socks that, when you are seated, will remain above the pants cuff. Belt or shoes of matching color, typically black or cordovan. Well-polished shoes. Professional briefcase or portfolio instead of backpack. Minimal cologne. Neat hairstyle. No more than 1 ring on each hand. Professional watch, especially one without an alarm that may sound during the interview. Do not wear theme clothing, such as a cartoon tie. Trimmed and clean fingernails. Remove body piercing, including earrings, and cover tattoos.