"You never get a second chance to make a first impression." This is the expression that is often told to those preparing themselves for an interview. Doing research on the company is only one way to prepare yourself. Another way to prepare for the interview is to dress conservatively. This means wearing the traditional dark suit and white shirt.

After getting the job, the new employee should not abandon the conservative look for work. Instead, he/she should incorporate their own personality into their work wardrobe. By doing this it shows the creative side of the individual. Creating a personal style shows individuality, and it also improves the self image.

There are basic guidelines for dressing on an interview. These rules have had little or no changes made to them. The rules are simple but if they are followed, you will make a great first impression. It is estimated that a first impression makes up about 80% of job hiring decisions (Emory Univ., 1). It is very important to dress to enhance your appearance so that the interviewer can concentrate on your qualifications.

Women

Wear a solid color (navy, gray, or black) suit or dress. But be careful, only a few dresses are acceptable. The skirt or dress should be knee length, no miniskirts are acceptable.

A conservative blouse should be worn. Preferably in white, cream, and other light colors. Some soft designs (flowers) can be worn.

Dark colored shoes should be worn. Pumps are acceptable and should be from 1 1/2 to 2 inches high. Avoid light or brightly colored shoes, stilettos, open toe, and sling back shoes.

Less jewelry is best. Avoid "flashy" pieces that jingle. A watch, wedding ring, and a class ring are accepted.

Wear skin tone panty hose to compliment your skin color. Do not wear shades that are too light or too dark.

The hair should be neatly combed. Avoid styles that leave the hair hanging in the face. It makes the interviewer feel that you have something to hide. Also try to avoid excess hairspray, and ornaments.

Little or no makeup is best. But if you feel uncomfortable without makeup wear it, just remember to keep it natural.

Do not over perfume. It is best to spray perfume two to three hours before an interview. By this time the scent will be more subtle.

Men

Wear a dark suit (navy, gray, black). Be sure to chose a style that is classic. This means that you should chose a cut that will not go out of style.

A white long sleeved shirt should be worn. Make sure that the shirt is laundered and neatly pressed ( you may need to remove your jacket). Other colors that are acceptable includes light blue and true blue. Stripes are also accepted.

Ties must be conservative. Do not wear ties which display cartoon characters or sporting goods on them. Stripe and geometric patterns are accepted.

Socks must be dark to match the suit. They should be over the calf to prevent showing the leg. Avoid wearing argyle and other patterned socks until you get the job.

Wear black leather shoes (oxfords or loafers). Patent leather shoes are not accepted. Make sure that the shoes are polished, and are in good condition. Avoid shoes that cannot be polished (suede), and shoes that have lug soles.

Less jewelry is best. A watch, wedding ring and school ring is accepted. Remove earrings and other types of rings before the interview. Chains and bracelets are not acceptable.

The hair should be conservative. It should be collar length, above the ears and neatly combed. Facial hair should be neatly trimmed as well. Excess facial hair (beards) and pony tails could be very risky. It is best to be clean shaven.

Cologne should be used sparingly. It is best to apply cologne two to three hours before the interview. You do not want the interviewer to sneeze when you walk through the door.

After following these guidelines and brushing up on interviewing tips, you will be ready for the interview. Dressing well for the interview is the first stage in dressing for success. To increase your chances for success remember to offer a warm smile, maintain eye contact, and offer a firm handshake. Let the interviewer see that you are a person who pays attention to detail by your neatness. It is also good to arrive about fifteen minutes early to use the rest room and to compose yourself.

The second stage of dressing for success is dressing well in the workplace. After getting the job, you must represent the company's image. During the first few weeks on the job, you will see how others dress in the workplace. This will be your chance to ask questions about the dress code, and other important policies and procedures. When you have become more familiar with your position in the company, you will be able to express yourself through your wardrobe.

The best advice for both men and women is to purchase versatile pieces that can mix and match with their existing work wardrobe. The key is to buy outfits that are of good quality and classic design. The same rules apply for purchasing shoes. Shoes should be comfortable and stylish. Lug sole shoes should be avoided because they are considered casual footwear. The new employee can experiment with their wardrobe after becoming familiar with their surroundings. In the article Dressing for Success, Linda Barkman (p.3) discusses the following trends that are now in the workplace:

Women:

A feminine dress

A soft, elongated jacket

A slim, flat-front trouser

Anything asymmetrical

Anything jersey, floral prints

A single, bold piece of jewelry Men:

The one-button suit

The three-button "stretch" suit

The patterned sportscoat

The textured dress shirt

The flat-front pant

A colorful tie

You only have one chance to impress a possible employer. After researching the company and memorizing interviewing tips, the interview could still be a disaster if you did not dress to convince the interviewer that you are someone that the company needs. By following the guidelines for dressing successfully, it increases your chances of getting the job. When you get the job, you must remember that dressing for success is still important.