What to wear to a job interview
Dress to impress at interview
Deliberating over what to wear to a job interview is an important part of the preparation process as we strive to make the best first impression. Now a new study in Korea has gone one step further by suggesting that what you wear to a job interview could not only be directly linked to your success in securing the role, but also the salary you will be paid.
“In the study, people were shown three photos of a woman being interviewed – the pictures were identical apart from in one shot she wore an unbranded shirt, in the second she had an H&M shirt on and in the third the shirt was from Louis Vuitton,” explains Sam Holt of Norwich-based accountancy recruitment company, Big Sky Additions. “Curiously, the respondents picked the woman in the designer shirt as being most likely to secure the job and also noted they thought she would be paid more.”
The study, which was published in the Journal of Business Research, confirmed the effect as part of signalling theory, whereby individuals show off to confirm to other individuals their high worth.
Sam was quick to point out that this theory could backfire and he does not recommend going out and investing in a new designer wardrobe just for a job interview: “I think what this study does underline is the importance that is placed upon making a good first impression – at the same time dressing in a style which appears too wealthy could appear distasteful to the interviewer.”
Fashions come and go, but style is timeless – here are Sam’s top tips for choosing a winning outfit for your next job interview:
- As a general rule of thumb, dress one notch above what you expect to wear day to day in the role that you are applying for
- Skirts or trousers are acceptable for women but the general rule is that the hemline on a skirt should not be more than one biro length above the knee
- Ladies should also keep heels at a sensible height – killer heels can become too much of a fashion statement
- Ladies can add a splash of colour with a simple scarf – gents should avoid garish patterns on ties!
- No comedy socks or ties – the interviewer will notice!
- Dark suits are generally the safest option – avoid linen even in Summer as it creases too easily
- Don’t forget to clean your shoes – attention to detail starts here
- Try on your outfit a couple of days in advance to give you time to dash to the dry cleaners if needed
For further advice on preparing for your next job interview contact Sam today :-
