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Appearing inappropriate
Appearances count and it’s true that you don’t get a second chance to make a first impression. Pay attention to your appearance.
The best way to make sure you’ll be wearing the right outfit is to find out what is normal dress for the job – ask your recruiter (if you’re working with one), ask the HR manager who schedules the interview if you’re comfortable doing so or even stop by the office to see what people are wearing so that you can dress appropriately. Like most things, office dress codes were simpler long ago. Work outfits were ‘white collar’ or ‘blue collar’ (or a uniform) and everyone knew what was meant.
Nowadays it’s not so easy. Standard advice used to be to dress a level above the office look for an interview, but since offices have become more and more casual in their dress codes, candidates risk looking out of step if they show up in formal business attire. Take care that the clothing you wear fits correctly and is properly cared for.
In addition to your outfit, you can boost your appearance by smiling, making eye contact, practicing good posture and exercising a firm handshake.
At the risk of sounding like your parent (but, sadly, it needs to be said): remember not to chew gum and don’t fidget.
