Three Ways to Dress For Success at Your Next Interview

You’ve filled out the job application, emailed it off, and waited patiently to hear a reply. Then, you got the exciting news you’d been hoping for all along. The hiring company wants you to come in for an interview. You’re elated, a little nervous and very excited for what the future holds. Then, you look in your closet and realize you have no clue what to wear for the big day. Do you go overly formal or casually cool? Do you break out that blazer that hasn’t seen the light of day since college or do you stick with a more minimalist wardrobe? Let’s take a look at three tips that can help you look as professional and polished as you feel.

1. Dress to fit the company culture.

You might already know that researching the company you’re interviewing with before you meet the leadership team in person is one of the top interview tips around. Yet, did you also know it’s important to understand the wardrobe dynamic at that workplace? While you might not be able to glean a ton of information concerning dress code from their online presence, it never hurts to hop on the internet and check out the company a few days beforehand. Are their web pages written in a formal tone or are you getting a more laid-back, friendly vibe? Are their social media profiles strictly professional spaces for leaders to share business data, or do they include emojis, memes and other fun elements to inject a little personality?

If it’s the former in both instances, you’re likely looking at a more traditional company that’s very business-oriented. In this case, stick with a smart, sharp suit to look your best and blend in with the other teams. On the other hand, if the company is projecting a more casual demeanor, you could look out of place showing up in a three-piece. In this case, a nice pair of slacks and a button-down are two wardrobe staples that look professional without appearing stuffy. Remember, it’s almost impossible to be over-dressed for an interview, as it shows you care and are serious about the position. To this end, it’s better to err on the side of caution and stick with your most polished pieces, casual or not.

2. Make sure you’re comfortable.

There’s nothing like fidgeting in an ill-fitting top while your interviewer fields you a ton of difficult questions. You also don’t want to be wobbling out of the conference room in stilettos that have pinched your toes to a pulp. Make sure that whatever you wear to your interview fits you well, is comfortable, and is something you can move in.

That way, you’ll be able to focus on the conversation at hand and won’t be tempted to reach around and adjust anything while you’re sitting there. Little movements such as that can convey nervousness, anxiety and a general impression of not being prepared. You want to be able to sit up straight, shake hands, and walk around the workplace without worrying about how your clothes will react. That means while you may be able to save money by donning that suit you wore to your cousin’s wedding 15 years ago, you’ll likely be self-conscious the entire time and that will show. In that case, it might be time to invest in a new suit or at least rent one to get you by.

3. Keep the boldness in check.

It’s perfectly fine to wear a patterned blouse or tie to an interview. However, that tie you got as a gag gift from Disney World that features a blinking Mickey nose? It’s better to leave that one at home. The same goes for that neon blouse you love, those earrings that are bigger than your ears, and that leopard print blazer you rocked in high school. While you want your personality to show through, remember that this is your only chance at a great first impression. You want to appear prepared, professional and intentional.

Given the opportunity, if you pass this interview with flying colors and land the position, you’ll have plenty of chances to show your colleagues your vibrancy. For now, though, it’s best to stick to neutral and muted tones as much as possible. Let your personality shine through your interactions and your responses, instead.

At the end of the day, acing an interview is all about how much you know, how able you are to articulate it and the kind of rapport you establish with the company’s leadership team. Your clothes shouldn’t make or break the conversation, though there are general guidelines to follow to make sure you don’t lower your chances of succeeding before you even begin. By sticking closely to these three rules, you’ll be better positioned to enter and leave the interview room with confidence and poise.