

A Basic Outline
Tips:
Dress in your best, most coordinated, and conservative attire.
1. Your outfit, suit or dress, should be a dark color, clean and pressed.
2. Be neat, clean, trimmed, and well groomed.
3. Jewelry, scents, and makeup should be on the conservative side.
4. Practice wearing new outfits before the actual interview.
5. Avoid fashion fads.
6. Dress for work, not to go out on the town.
7. Do not smoke for at least an hour before an interview, and
NEVER smoke in your car on the way to the interview.
Remember . . .
Inspect yourself before you leave for the interview
and attend each session with a smile and enthusiasm.
1. Your first impressions are critical (opinions are formed in 12–30 seconds).
2. The interviewer will see you before you have an opportunity to discuss
your qualifications. Look sharp.
3. Remember, if your appearance is not appreciated, you will not get the
position!
4. Dress for the job you want, not the job you have or have had.
5. Look professional even as you park your car for the interview; you never
know whose office you are parked in front of.
If you look good, you will feel good!
The Essential Wardrobe
Often, questions are raised as to how to dress for the job search process and,
more specifically, what to wear to impress a potential employer. Of course,
every person has individual style and may be sensitive to advice concerning
professional attire or even what constitutes professional. However, be
advised that impressions are often formulated by decision makers in the
first 30 seconds of any meeting or interview. Do not take any chances! If
you are unsure, the best suggestion is to visit the employer’s location before
your interview, observe what current employees are wearing and mirror
their actions. Ideally, find out from an information interview.
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Section 12 – Professional Branding: Resume & Cover Letter