Impactful Interviewing:

What To Wear To A Job Interview

by Beau Riche

Possibly even more stressful than the questions you are going to have to answer, you are going to have to find the perfect outfit to wear to a job interview. You want to look professional and like you are going to fit in with the company. A good rule of thumb for men is that you can't overdress for the interview - shirt and tie or a suit is always a safe choice. For women, picking the clothes is more challenging.

For both men and women, pick an outfit that you feel comfortable in and that fits you properly. You don't want pants that are too tight or a shirt that is too snug across the chest. It will be a distraction for both you and your interviewer. Along the same vein, pick colors that suit you but aren't too bright or patterns that are overly bold. You want the focus to be on your answers, not what you are wearing.

Remember too that your overall appearance is going to be judged, and this includes more than the clothes you are wearing. Hygiene and grooming: be clean, neat and tidy. It is probably best not to wear a strong scent - chances are you will be in a small room and it could make others uncomfortable. Your fingernails should be short and clean, your hair clean and tidy, and have mints with you or brush your teeth immediately before leaving for the interview.

You may wonder what all of these details has to do with your qualifications and getting the job. It has to do a lot with it, especially if you are going to be dealing with the company's customers face-to-face. The company will want to hire employees who are going to represent the company in the best possible light.