UNLV Career Handbook - Magazine - Page 42
DRESSING
PROFESSIONALLY
Most experts agree that 80 percent of an interviewer's
opinion of a candidate is based solely on their 昀椀rst
impression. Professional dress, positive body language,
and a well-groomed appearance are important
components of that 昀椀rst impression.
Dress codes vary by company and industry, making it
dif昀椀cult to decide the most appropriate interview attire.
Some employers have adopted business casual dress
policies for everyday wear, but that does not necessarily
mean you should dress casually for the interview. Find
out how professionals within a particular company or
昀椀eld dress by reviewing company websites, visiting the
of昀椀ce, or asking someone who works in that industry.
You may be concerned that you are not the suit-and-tie
type. Your individuality is important, but you will have
plenty of opportunities to display your unique style
once you have the job. Use the interview to determine
the company's culture, including dress policies, but do
not give the employer any reason to select someone
else over you before they have had a chance to get to
know you.
It is important to avoid strong fragrances, so do not
wear perfume, cologne, or aftershave. However, you
should be sure to wear deodorant. The interviewer
may have a different taste than you, and you want to
avoid overpowering the room. Being well groomed
and showered, having clean nails, and a neat hairstyle
are always crucial. And make sure your breath is
fresh by bringing some mints. Also, remember, less is
more — keep your look simple. Wear minimal jewelry
and consider concealing body piercings or tattoos,
depending on the company culture.
Shined shoes and fresh clothes that are crisply ironed
are also important. Wear your interview clothes once
or twice before the interview, so you know how you feel
while walking, sitting, and standing — make sure it 昀椀ts
well. Dressing professionally will give you con昀椀dence.
Avoid items that scream “student”, such as backpacks,
large water bottles, and other campus gear. Also,
turn your cell phone off! Even a cell phone on vibrate
or a smartwatch 昀氀ashing on is enough of a nuisance
and distraction during an interview to turn off a
potential employer.
42
CAREER HANDBOOK
AUTHENTICITY AND PROFESSIONAL ATTIRE
IN THE WORKPLACE
Your professional brand includes all aspects of yourself,
including your skills, experiences, education, personal
characteristics, and appearance. You should be able to be your
authentic self in any role, career path, and workplace. Being
able to be your whole self at work creates a much richer, more
open environment for everyone involved. For you, this may
mean dressing authentically, which can encourage a culture of
inclusion amongst your colleagues and staff.
Take note of how other employees, including your manager,
are dressed and base your degree of professional attire
accordingly, which will give you an insight into the implied
dress code boundaries.
