How to Dress For a Job Interview

At a time when many of us are job-seeking, I thought this would be an appropriate moment for a post on dressing for interviews. Here are a few tips to consider when putting your interview look together:

• Why appearance is important and who you need to impress
• Common mistakes when dressing for an interview
• Accessories and body language, women's suits
• Great shops, shining examples
• Seven key tips for interview dressing

Match the company dress code. Let them see you respect their requirements. Research the office if necessary, watch people coming and going, how formal or casual do they appear? Alternatively, speak to the HR Director's secretary (who has a surprising amount of clout) to ask about the company dress code.

An applicant I met recently later discovered that the interviewer had sent his secretary to collect and then return him to reception to see how he reacted once he'd relaxed after the interview. Her opinion on his comments and manners was a major part of the process. Be warned.

Common mistakes when dressing for an interview
Common mistakes when dressing for an interview
Women. It's inadvisable to wear low cut tops or too-short skirts. Also cut back on jewellery and wear moderate make-up. A 28 year old woman I know, who worked in a global bank, had been told several times that her ultra-short mini was inappropriate for work, however she stubbornly ignored the advice and went for promotion interview, not only did she not get promotion she only worked for a further 6 weeks in that particular bank.

Men. Don't wear too flamboyant or fun ties or socks, they do nothing for your personal brand. Clean and well-repaired shoes are essential and make sure socks are pulled up and not saggy -â€" no exposed hairy ankles when you cross your legs please.

Match shoes and belts, and if your trousers have belt loops make sure you put a belt in them. Avoid any large flashy jewellery (bracelets, over-sized watches or earrings). Make sure too that if you are in a collar and tie that the tie is properly done up right into the collar and not slipping down, a loose tie gives a poor impression.

Expert tip: socks should match shoes NOT trousers.

In a conventional office, visible tattoos, and body-piercings aren't really appropriate for either sex; in more creative businesses personal appearance will be more relaxed, but you should still look business-ready and capable.

Whether you expect to be interviewing in a formal office outfit or in more smart casual clothing, ensure that everything is in perfect condition and spotlessly clean (gents, no frayed or curly collars and cuffs). Remove pens from pockets. Women, always wear tights with a skirt or dress, and keep the shoes conservative.

Expert tip for ladies: for a longer leaner look wear dark tights to match your dark skirt and black shoes.

Remember also the Triangle of Influence, i.e. the area from your head to your waist is the part that makes the most impact when you are sitting facing your interviewers. Paying attention to this area is empowering.

Accessories and body language, women's suits
Accessories and body language
Pay attention to accessories. A discreet watch, a quality leather document bag and a fountain pen and decent notepad, if you are expecting to take notes, looks prepared and professional -- no chewed biros or scraps of paper. Think discreet touches rather than overt display. Don't be over-confident and relax back in your chair -- this can make you appear arrogant -- sit up, well back in the chair, and lean slightly forward.

The best stylish alternatives to a suit for women
I believe in developing effective and well-budgeted capsule wardrobes that work hard for their money. I think mannish suits are outdated for women. A smart shorter belted jacket in grey over elegant black trousers and a snappy royal blue or white shirt is simple, professional and timeless; and can be mixed and matched with a skirt and another co-ordinating jacket, or even a simple shift dress. Not everyone suits black, so if you find that black washes you out, go for greys, navies, or even deep aubergine or dark chocolate. Keep the accessories simple but making a quality statement.

Whatever you choose to wear, male or female, mark out your differentiation and be memorable. Your interviewer should remember you long after you've left the room as remarkable and different (for all the right reasons). Achieve the dazzle-factor -- be exceptional, professional and empathetic.

Great shops, shining examples
Shops I'd recommend when shopping for an interview outfit
I think M&S have a great range in their Autograph section, and Next (for women) are reasonable and appropriate. For higher budgets look at Jaeger Black and Austin Reed. Aquascutum and Burberry have some outstanding pieces.

Business people who have a great sense of corporate style
No matter what you think of him, Alan Sugar always looks immaculately turned out, as does Peter Jones of Dragons Den fame (he often makes a point of criticising the applicants' personal presentation). On the female side, Linda Bennett founder of LK Bennett, and Dr. Glenda Stone founder of Aurora Gender Capital Management, always walk the talk.

Seven key tips for interview dressing
Seven key tips for interview dressing

1. Research the company thoroughly and meet their dress code requirements.
2. Exhibit great body language, don't slouch or relax too much, look interested and vital.
3. Don't overdress -- less is more.
4. Avoid red, it's a very strong colour, and, psychologically, it sends out danger signals
5. Be exceptionally well groomed -- look out for stray hairs on shoulders.
6. Have a firm but not bone-crushing handshake -- with a dry hand.
7. Keep good eye contact and don't forget to smile.