NOW more than ever, looking for a job seems to feel uncertain because of the pandemic. Still, it helps to look on the bright side and have faith in opportunities that will come (which might be sooner than expected). When a lead falls on your lap with a single phone call, it’s always best to be prepared for that appointment—and that includes deciding what to wear. Yes, your skills and experience in your field will take you places but your outfit can also contribute to your success, especially when meeting someone for the first time.
Here are some reasons and benefits why dressing up for a job interview is important:
It’s a confidence booster
It’s all about showing the company what you can bring to the table (it’s not just about what the company can do for you). You can’t give your spiel or keep it together during an interview if, every now and then, you can’t stop but think if you look okay. By choosing the right outfit, you won’t have to worry about it. You need to think of yourself as a project. When you do a project, it needs to be complete. The outfit you wear for your interview serves as the pièce de résistance. If you feel good in what you wear, you’ll feel even more confident and ready to go.
First impressions count
As you walk in the room, how you carry yourself and your outfit serves as your introduction even before you hold out your hand and speak. If you’re looking spic and span, it shows how put together you are. You have a tiny window to make a good impression so make it count. When people say dress up, it doesn’t mean spending a lot of money and buying really expensive outfits. It means taking the time in combining pieces to make you look presentable. Pair that with a proper haircut or your hair in place and clean nails, you’re all set. As long as you’re neat and tidy, that’s all that matters.
It shows how important this job is for you
How you present yourself doesn’t just reflect your personality, it also shows your priorities in life. When it comes to job interviews, dressing up is more than looking good. In the eyes of the interviewer, you’re not taking this appointment lightly and it shows respect. With this in mind, you need to take time figuring out what kinds of outfits will match the setting and the environment of the company you’re hoping to land a job in. Determine if the mood calls for a more formal, casual or informal wardrobe. Most of the time it’s better to be overdressed than underdressed, but there are times it varies.