When I assess candidates I interview in person, there are four main components that I look for in determining the best. In no particular order, they are:
- Professional Achievements
- Qualifications
- Articulation
- Professional Appearance
I am not going to focus in on the specifics of all in this post, but instead devote this discussion to the importance of a professional appearance. Now while I have found that the top candidates have the full package (they seem to go hand-in-hand), there have been instances where aspects of appearance have adversely affected candidates. Now I am not suggesting you have to look like Brad Pitt or Megan Fox, but there are certainly steps you can take if you feel like your look is out of date or if you have actually received feedback that suggests a facet (or facets) of your appearance are not working for you.
First, I would suggest dressing for the part in your type of interview. If you are at the executive or senior management level, then obviously a suit and tie for men and either a suit with coordinated blouse, or fashionable blouse and skirt for women. Office workers would be best served with the same, with some tone down (minus suit jackets) when appropriate. Even for more clue collar work, I would recommend a nice pair of pressed slacks/skirt and shirt as a way to stand out professionally in comparison with your competition. About the only industry that seems to be able to get away with a much more relaxed or casual attire are professionals in the I.T. industry. I have had the guy with a Star Wars shirt, mismatched shorts and flip-flops show up for an interview. And in that industry, it is pretty common. But it is certainly more of the exception than the rule across the board. The bottom-line is to make sure that your interview dress is in line with the standards in your industry.
Details matter. As funny as this may sound, one of the most subtle yet distinguishing factors among interviewees is found in small details such as shoes, belt and fingernails. And I do not mention nails only for women; men should be careful to keep presentable and at least somewhat manicured nails as well. In every interview I can think of there has been at least one handshake, and those fingernails for a moment are on display. Being uncomely or dirty can have a negative impact. It seems almost silly to mention, but shoes that aren’t polished or a belt that is hanging on by a thread tells someone like me a lot about you; you don’t come across as detail-oriented. Unkempt hair, not shaving (men), and wearing white socks with a suit are little things that make bad impressions. Don’t let the details hold you back.
Smells are also a big part of appearance even though technically they fit in a different sensory category. Wearing too much cologne or perfume, or poor hygiene will not reflect well. I remember a few years back that there was one gentleman in particular who’s interview I had to cut short simply because the smell that permeated the room was one of not having bathed or showered for 3 weeks. Nice guy, but chances blown on bad hygiene.
Don’t go overboard. In other words, don’t become too flashy by displaying too much bling (jewelry, etc.) or by wearing a hairstyle that could be considered over the top. Remember, it’s best to err on being conservative, so purposely wearing flashy colors, wearing a min-skirt or carrying three Louis Vuitton purses may not bring the right attention. Instead be conservative in color choices, and leave the “extra” accessories at home.
Be up to date with your look. Steve Urkel’s glasses or Madonna’s hair may have looked good in the ‘80’s, but not so much today. Your appearance directly reflects on potential employers if you are hired. Invest in a few current outfits to look the part. Ask a hairdresser to help you with a modern look. For women, visit the makeup counters at your local mall or department store for a free consultation.
Finally, and I will bring this up because it does make an impression, is the perception that can be made by being out of shape. The stress of a job search can add unwanted pounds, and that will change the way you look. Although it is not supposed to happen, you are kidding yourself if you don’t think that some employers are gauging aspects of your physical appearance and drawing unconscious correlations in their minds to potential sick time due to illnesses or increasing the insurance premiums of the company. Invest some time in yourself by eating right and exercising. Not only will you look better, but you will also feel better, especially in alleviating some of the stress that can come from a job search.
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