How to Dress Appropriately for a Job Interview

Job interviews can be stressful enough without having to worry about whether or not you are dressed appropriately. Whether its fair or not, your appearance is a big part of the overall first impression you will make on the person giving you the job interview, and anyone else you might meet in the office that day.

You could have very a very similar background and just as good qualifications as another person interviewing for the same position as you, but if they are dressed nicer and more appropriately, there is a good chance they will be the one given the job offer over you. You always have to account for the fact that there might just be one tiny difference between you and your competition and you want to make sure you end up ahead.

In general, it's always a good idea to dress for the interview the same way you would dress if you get the job, except a little bit nicer. Not only will a well-polished look let your future employer know you are serious and really want this job, but you will also feel more confident. If you arrive at the interview clearly dressed incorrectly, you will be too worried about that and busy trying to hide it to really pay attention to your interviewer. You want to make sure you a memorable, but not for all the wrong reasons.

If you aren't sure how casual or fancy the people dress at the business you are interviewing at, it's always a good idea to do a little research. Hang around outside when people are arriving or leaving the office and see what they are wearing. You could also send a friend inside to scope the place out for you.

No matter where you are interviewing there are a few fashion tips to keep in mind:

Always iron your shirt. Even if it doesn't look to wrinkled, and even if it's a no-iron shirt. Iron your skirt or pants too while you are at it and always keep a sharp crease in your pants.

If you are woman trying to work your way up the corporate ladder, studies show that you should wear a lighter colored suit. Strong and in charge women can be very intimidating and a lighter suit will minimize this.