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Professional Attire

As a candidate, a recruiter or hiring manager is gauging if you will be a good representation of the company and its brand. Being a snappy dresser might not get you the job, but improper dress and appearance is one of the most common reasons a candidate doesn't receive an offer.

Attire Tips

  • Hygiene is a must! Remember to shower, groom, wear deodorant and brush your teeth
  • Arrive pressed and ready to impress
  • Shoes in good condition, shined and no scuffs
  • Dress conservatively and appropriately for the position
  • Clothes that fit properly, not too tight or loose. This is not the time to be uncomfortable because your collar is too tight!
  • In the end the office may be business casual, but you aren't hired yet! Always go above what might be expected from you on a day to day basis.

Tip: Different industries have different dress code standards. Financial sectors will expect a suit, but a job in parks and recreation may be overdressed in a power suit. Ask a Career Advisor for help!

  • Well-tailored suits (pants or a skirt) should have a good fit.
  • Dark or Neutral suit and tie; or a blazer and dress shirt
  • Stick to dark and neutral colors such as black, navy or gray.
  • Choose a conservative tie- Colorful is ok but no loud prints or neon colors
  • Be mindful of skirt length, skirts should fall just above theknee.
  • “Unsuited” business attire can give you a professional look even if you don’t have access to a well-fitting suit. A nice pair of slacks can be paired with a blouse, sweater or a tailored button-down shirt
  • Long sleeve shirts- Yes, even when it is 90 degrees!
  • No plunging or revealing necklines
  • No leggings or yoga pants—ever.

Tip: Have a backup outfit or shirt on hand and ready to go! You never know when you might get a smudge or lose a button.

  • Choose a dark or neutral dress shoe. No stilettos, strappy sandals or platform pumps!
  • Don’t fall victim to the white socks with dress shoes! Be sure that your trouser socks pass the elasticity test so they don’t fall down your leg midway through your interview.
  • Well-groomed hair with nails trimmed and cleaned

  • If you choose to wear jewelry, keep it simple. This is not the time to impress with your bling!
  • Tuck in your shirt and wear a belt; when in doubt matchthe beltto your shoe color.
  • Keep visible piercings to earring only (one in each ear)

  • Stick to a conservative look rather than trendy. This is not the time to push the fashion envelope.
  • Avoid scented lotions, cologne or perfume- You want to stand out due to your brilliance not your smell!
  • Jeans, tees, caps and sneakers are a No-No!
  • Wrinkled or Stained Clothing
  • Ill fitting items
  • Missing buttons or Frayed hems

  • Stick to a conservative look rather than trendy. This is not the time to push the fashion envelope.
  • Avoid scented lotions, cologne or perfume- You want to stand out due to your brilliance not your smell!
  • Jeans, tees, caps and sneakers are a No-No!
  • Wrinkled or Stained Clothing
  • Ill fitting items
  • Missing buttons or Frayed hems
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