What NOT to Wear for Your Interview

So you finally got that interview? Before you go have a quick look down this check list and just ensure you aren’t about to commit any of these interview dress SINS.

Some of them seem like common sense but you would be surprised how commonly some of them are committed!

It is very important to look good and smart for any job interview.

What NOT to wear for your Interview

Crumpled or Dirty? Whatever you wear for your interview should be CLEAN, and CREASE FREE. Try to put your clothing on just before the interview, don’t get ready first thing and then wear it all day, it’s bound to get stained or crumpled!

The wrong shoes!! Ensure you are wearing SUITABLE footwear. Sandals, Trainers, ridiculously high boots are all a BIG NO! Wear something sensible and suitable. If wearing dress shoes, ensure they are scuff free and shiny.

STINKER! Nobody likes someone smelly, so it goes without saying that you should be well groomed and cleans, but also don’t overdo it on the perfume/aftershave. The last thing the interviewer wants is to be able to taste your choice of scent.

Put away the accessories. If you have travelled in to the interview and been listening to music, ensure your headphones are tucked away into a pocket, likewise any hats/sunglasses/gloves should be tidied away before your potential employer lays eyes on you.

Hem line. Ladies, ensure that when you sit, the skirt you choose for your interview covers your thighs. If in doubt, a smart pair of trousers looks just as nice. Flashing leg may get you the job, but it may not be the right kind of boss!

TIED UP. If you wish to wear a tie, avoid novelty or gaudy coloured ties. You should choose one with a neat pattern or of solid colour, with experts saying red is a good choice for an interview.

HAWAII SHIRTS. In fact ANY brightly coloured clothing is a huge NO. Dress in a conservative colour scheme such as grays, blacks, browns. There are a few exceptions, for example if you are going to an interview in a nursery, you may wish to add a splash of colour in the form of a cardigan, just to show you have a fun side.

Unmatching Accessories. Ensure that any belts and shoes are the same colour and material or they will stick out like a sore thumb.

The wrong Bag. Don’t take a carrier bag, rucksack or similar to an interview. IF you must carry things in a bag ensure it is a business like bag, or briefcase.

Don’t overdo the Make up! This also applies to false tan. Less really is more. Don’t make your image look fake. If you must wear makeup ensure it is light and natural.

Avoid Jewellery. With the exception of wedding/engagement rings.

Tattoos/Piercings. These may be your pride and joy, but it isn’t a great idea to have them in your interviewers face. If you are concerned about the policy, ask at your interview about it. This will show that you respect their policies.

Unpresentable Nails. Ensure your nails are trim and neat, and clean! Ladies, don’t apply huge false nails for an interview.

Unpresentable or wacky hair. Ensure your hair is a natural colour and an acceptable style.

SOCKS! Men in particular should be sure to check their socks match their trouser colour, and that their trousers don’t ride up exposing inches of hairy leg!

Make sure before your interview that you have your clothing all ready to go, have a friend of relative check it over to ensure you look ok in it. Ensure that you feel comfortable in it. It would be wise to have two outfits ready just in case anything should happen to your first choice!