Dress for Success

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Professional Attire
Dress for Success!

You’re interviewing for a job or talking to a recruiter at a career fair; you have 30 seconds to make a good impression, and the first thing the employer sees is what you’re wearing. Will dressing properly get you the job? Of course not. But dressing wrong could cost you the job. It definitely pays to have the right clothing for the type of job you’re seeking – it’s an investment in your future. First impressions count!

We recommend the following attire for interviews. Although there is some slight variation in what is most appropriate, depending on the type of organization you are interviewing with, it is always best to be on the conservative side when interviewing for a professional position.

"3 S's for Success" Checklist for Interview Attire

SUIT

Women

Men

Matching two-piece suit (either pant or skirt suit)
Tailored fit
Colors of suit: navy, grey, taupe, dark brown, tan, olive or black
Skirt should be knee-length (no
inappropriate slits)

Matching two-piece solid or
pin- striped suit
Tailored fit, including pants
length.
Color of suit: navy, dark grey,
dark brown, olive or black

SHIRT

Women		Men
Shirt with collar OR tailored blouse Color of shirt: white, pastel or light color No lace or embroidery on blouse - no low-cut tops showing cleavage.		Shirt with collar Color of shirt: white or light color Tie required - no bold prints or patterns

SHOES

Women		Men
Closed-toe, no slingbacks or open backs Dark-colored 1 to 2 inch heel Well-maintained and polished Panty hose required (neutral color)		Leather shoe (dark color) Well maintained and polished Dress socks (dark color)

Other important things to remember:

Minimal jewelry and make-up (nail polish, if worn, should be neutral and chip-free
Bring professional bag or briefcase (dark in color)
No visible piercing or tatttoos

See links below for more information and visual presentations on professional attire. The examples will include less conservative professional attire appropriate for wearing on the job, but not on job interviews.

Career Center Resources to Help You with Professional Attire

Professional Attire Websites

Career Library

Individual Appointment with a Career Counselor. Call 813-974-2171 to schedule

Walk-in Advising: 15-minute question and answer session. Fall & Spring only.

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