What to Wear When Conducting an Interview
Whether you’ve done countless interviews or are prepping for your first, it helps to present a professional appearance. The clothes you wear make an impression on your candidate, and they can also boost your confidence. When you look polished and put-together, you’re likely to exude a positive, can-do attitude. Check out these outfit ideas for conducting interviews:
Outfit Ideas for Business Formal Workplaces
If your workplace is formal, wear slacks or a skirt with a modest top for conducting an interview. The key is to choose pieces with a traditional business look. For example, you could wear navy or black pants or a skirt with a button-up blouse. There are embroidered work blouses for women that look stylish and can be branded with your company name. You could also go for a chic pullover in a fabric like polyester crepe, which has a silky look and feel.
Dresses are also good for formal work environments. There are custom uniform work dresses in various styles, such as short-sleeve Ponte neck dresses. Top one of these dresses with a blazer or cardigan sweater for an extra layer of warmth in fall, winter, or air-conditioned environments. These elegant pieces can also be customized with embroidery for a branded look.
For men, there are washable wool pants that have a traditional look without the need for dry cleaning. These men’s custom uniform work pants can be laundered in your washing machine, and they pair well with classic Oxford button-downs. Add a tie and jacket to create a men’s work outfit that’s appropriate for any formal workplace.
The great thing about today’s workwear is that it can be branded. Even the most formal work apparel can be embroidered with your business name or logo. Branded work apparel demonstrates to your interviewee that your workplace is a professional team environment.
Outfit Ideas for Business Casual Workplaces
There are just as many options for dressing for a casual interview. If your workplace is casual or business casual, you can dress in comfortable, easy-care separates. Think flat-front chinos with a tailored polo shirt, or even shorts with a cotton T-shirt. You could add a uniform vest to complete the look. If you work in an industry where a specific uniform is required, then your apparel choice is easy. All you have to do is wear your usual uniform and make sure it’s clean and wrinkle-free.
You’ll find brandable workwear for various industries—for example, construction uniforms and restaurant uniforms. To distinguish management from employees, many workplaces opt for different color uniforms. Management might wear a red or black polo shirt, while employees might wear a totally different color that matches the company’s color scheme.
When selecting business uniform shirts, make sure to choose an embroidery color that stands out against the shirt color. For example, white embroidery pops against dark colors, while black embroidery makes a bold impression against a light-colored shirt.
Choosing the Right Clothing Colors
If you’re able to choose the color of your custom business workwear, it’s a good idea to consider the principles of color psychology. When conducting an interview, you want to appear confident and in control of the situation. Red is a color that inspires action, and it makes you look and feel powerful. Purple is a regal hue that can also inspire confidence. Blue is thought to make people feel calmer, so consider wearing sapphire or periwinkle if you want your interviewee to feel at ease. Navy blue is another option for workwear that’s versatile, classic and exudes professionalism. Of course, you don’t have to follow any rules when choosing apparel colors—go with what you like best.
Accessories and Footwear
Depending on your workplace, you may be able to wear accessories with your work uniform. Impart sparkle to your look and accent your apparel with understated jewelry. Choose one piece, such as a pair of gold earrings or a single bangle bracelet. When it comes to accessorizing your work apparel, less is more.
Footwear can also enhance the look of your business uniform while keeping you comfortable all day. If you work in an office, look for flats or heels with features like cushioned midsoles. For active jobs, you’ll want a shoe that’s crafted from durable, breathable materials. Some work shoes have tiny perforations to allow for airflow. For formal and casual workplaces alike, it’s important to choose footwear with a non-slip sole for good traction on every type of surface.
Tips for Conducting a Successful Interview
The way you dress to conduct an interview can make a difference in how you feel and the impression you make. It’s also important to be prepared, so take the time to create and review your interview questions. Also, don’t forget to smile and give a warm greeting when meeting an interviewee. With the right apparel and attitude, you’ll be ready to find the ideal candidate for your workplace.