Fashion trends come and go but the tried and true formulas for interviewing never go out of style.
With the economy and business declining, unemployment at levels we haven't seen for many years, and insecurity and uncertainty prevalent, companies have become less inclined to take risks when it comes to hiring.
In the current climate, I have witnessed a marked trend toward a safer approach.
When hiring managers evaluate you as a potential employee, they want to see evidence of your reliability in making their hiring decision.
This is generally the case no matter what the current economy may be, but in less certain times employers want the virtual assurance that you are not a risky hire but a safe bet.
The judgment they formulate of your risk potential starts with your attire.
Being unique in ability, attitude and drive will impress, but when it comes to first impressions, being unique in how you look won't pay you mileage.
An interesting trend in the professional job market is a shift back to the more standard, traditional look when it comes to dress.
Suddenly people are buying white shirts again.
They send a message that says, "I'm solid, reliable, and safe.
" That's not a bad message to deliver in an interview, especially today.
Though many companies have business casual environments at their corporate facility, or "Casual Friday's" to loosen things up a bit, in an interview that first impression still registers in a big way and an interview isn't the place for Casual Friday.
It's time for an understated version of Sunday Best.
Once you're hired, you can adapt to the culture, but for the interview the tried and true pays off.
The only exceptions may be industries that value style and flair such as advertising, the fashion industry, and other artistic environments.
In those situations, a display of your knowledge of tasteful trends and fashion flair might be more in order.
Not sure what the environment might be? Corporate cultures do vary and there are some things you can do before an interview to get the flavor of the company's atmosphere.
Get a copy of the corporation's annual report or visit their website and see how employees and upper management dress.
Or, if a company is near you, drive by at lunch or at the end of the work day and see how what the dress code seems to be.
Even if it appears that it is a casual environment, you are likely better off taking your interview attire up a notch in formality for the interview.
Most people will be interviewing for traditional business positions of one sort or another where you will be meeting people and interacting within your job.
As in all things interview-related, the interviewer will associate how you come across to him with how you will come across to clients, coworkers, and other people with whom you interact on a daily basis in the workplace.
Here are some general guidelines for can't-miss interview attire that will send the right message regardless of the position for which you're interviewing.
FOR MEN: Where a SUIT-Dark blue or dark grey preferred.
Think Brooks Brothers or IBM image.
It's worth spending the extra money on a quality suit made out of a natural material such as wool or a wool blend which breathe.
A cheap suit that's wrinkled isn't a good look.
If a suit isn't in your budget or if you are interviewing in an environment where you know a suit is too formal then at the minimum, wear a sport coat.
Navy with khaki slacks or navy with grey slacks are good choices.
Choose the right SHIRT-White or light blue is always a great choice.
Bright or dark colors while once popular are not recommended, especially on the first interview.
Always wear long sleeves.
Short sleeves are too casual.
Invest in some great TIES-A solid color such as dark red, blue, or burgundy always work.
Patterns are fine as long as they are understated.
In the pattern department, subtle stripes or small dots are good choices.
Wild patterns and gaudy colors are distractions and a definite 'No".
Learn to tie a great knot.
A half-Windsor or full Windsor is always professional.
Choose the knot width in accordance with the opening of the collar, i.
e.
, a narrow opening, a narrow knot.
Do NOT tie it too short or too long.
The end should be even with the belt.
Natural materials are suggested for a tie as well.
Silk is best.
Get off on the right foot with appropriate SHOES: With lace up dress shoes, you will never go wrong.
Black or brown shoes are best, depending on the suit color.
Another good and timeless choice is cordovan.
Wingtips are still considered classic as well, especially in more formal environments such as banking.
Loafers are acceptable, especially if paired with a sport coat and slacks.
Again, black or brown are suggested.
Regardless of the choice, make sure they are clean, free of scuffs, and shined.
Wear a good BELT-The belt should match the shoes, have a simple clasp, and be of an appropriate width, usually on the narrow side.
Don't forget the SOCKS-Socks should be dark and matched to the suit or shoes you're wearing.
Never wear white socks to an interview.
Make sure they are long enough not to expose a part of your leg when you're sitting.
Choose the right ACCESSORIES: Carry a narrow leather briefcase equipped and neatly organized with all the things you will need in the interview such as a pad of paper, pens, your resume and documentation, and business cards.
If you will be using a laptop during the interview, then carry a nice laptop case with all of the other things you will need inside rather than bringing both a briefcase and a laptop case.
If you don't have a briefcase or one is not appropriate for the job at hand, carry a leather bound folder with all the essentials inside.
Avoid too much jewelry.
Except for a wedding ring, leave the rings at home.
A simple tie bar is acceptable.
Wear a classy watch or wear no watch at all as opposed to wearing a cheap one.
If you are given to checking the time when you're nervous, put the watch away during the interview or just make sure you're not checking it.
Grooming and Miscellaneous Tips for Men: Don't wear heavy cologne.
The best bet is to skip it altogether.
Heavy scents can be an issue in an interview.
Get a haircut preferably a week or two before the interview.
If you have a mustache or beard, make sure it's neatly trimmed.
Make sure your fingernails are manicured and clean.
FOR WOMEN: A SUIT or not ?-A grey or navy business suit is always a great choice.
Choose a solid color in a natural material or opt for one with a small, muted pinstripe.
Slacks can be appropriate if part of the business suit.
A dress is not recommended unless it is a 'suit dress'.
Stay away from trendy and go for conservative, timeless looks.
Skirts should not be too short or too long.
If a suit isn't in order, go for a classic blouse and dark skirt or pants.
Choose the right BLOUSE-The blouse can add a bit of color to the outfit if you like, but choose a conservative one in a light color.
Again, white or blue are best, but other pastels such as cream, light yellow, or even a blush color are acceptable.
Take care that it is not too tight nor too revealing.
Great SHOES make a great statement-Wear dark, closed toe pumps that match the business suit.
High heels are not recommended.
Make sure they're clean and free of scuffs.
Never wear sandals.
Wear pantyhose in a nude color.
Bare legs are too casual.
ACCESSORIES-Carry a great handbag (leather and a solid dark color that matches your shoes), a leather briefcase in a similar or complimentary color, or a laptop case.
Choose one of the three and organize your things into one place accordingly.
If carrying a purse, you might also carry a leather bound folder for your interview essentials, but do not bring both a purse and a briefcase to the interview.
It's too cumbersome and awkward.
Streamline yourself for the best presentation possible.
Jewelry is fine but always keep it minimal.
Wear your wedding ring, of course, but leave the other fingers unadorned.
Wear a classic watch and simple earrings, preferably gold or silver in a plain style.
Never wear dangles.
No bangle bracelets or distracting necklaces.
A simple chain with a small elegant pendant might be fine, but opting to go without a necklace is an even more serious, less complicated look.
When it comes to accessories in general, follow the old rule from Chanel.
Get completely dressed including accessories and then remove one thing.
Less is usually more.
Simple, understated, and classy wins every time when meeting a prospective employer.
Grooming and Miscellaneous Tips for Women Light makeup is always recommended.
Subtle shades of lipstick are far preferable to bright or dark ones.
Eye shadows should be neutral.
Avoid too much eyeliner or the 'smoky' look.
Keep your look as natural as possible.
Get or give yourself a manicure, but again, keep it light or neutral.
Use restraint with perfume.
Although we all love a great scent, if too overpowering it is a negative.
A great haircut will boost your confidence.
Keep an extra pair of pantyhose with you so in the event of that annoying run at the worst possible time, you're prepared.
Check your makeup and hair right before you walk into the interview.
FOR EVERYONE: Additional Basic To-Do's and Not-To-Do's Wrinkles, ill fitting clothes or stains are never good.
Check your clothing for stains before setting out to interview.
Make sure nothing is uncomfortably tight.
Bring along a wrinkle release product if you fear your clothes might get wrinkled in transit.
Keep an extra suit clean and ready to go for that unexpected call asking, "Can you be here today?" Leave your cell phone turned off or in the car.
Never take calls during an interview.
Cover any tattoos and remove any piercings.
In summary, keep it simple, streamlined, subtle, and understated.
You want the interviewer to pay attention to who you are and what you bring to the table first and foremost.
If you create a neat and pleasing palette with your appearance, the color of your personality and skills will have more room to shine through.