49
Interviewing
PROFESSIONAL DRESS With several levels of professional dress, it’s important to know the different classifications and when each type is acceptable. When in doubt, always ask a supervisor or your interviewer. Casual attire should only be worn when explicitly indicated as acceptable.
Business Professional – Serves as daily wear in professional industries
Suit
Men
Women
• • •
Suit jacket is required Suit should be solid or subtle pinstripes Jacket should be buttoned while standing and unbuttoned while seated Neutral colors: black, gray, brown, navy
• •
•
•
Two-piece suit, jacket required Neutral colors: black, gray, brown, navy Jacket sleeve length should fall one-half inch below wrist
Shirt
• • •
White or muted shirt with collar Long sleeves Shirt sleeve should extend one-half inch beyond suit jacket sleeve
• • •
Blouse or camisole Light colors Cleavage should be completely covered
Bottoms
• •
Match suit jacket Pant length should touch the front of the shoe and fall above the heel in the back
• • •
Match suit jacket Neutral colors Pants should fall one-half inch above the ground Skirts should end at the middle of the knees and avoid high slits
•
Shoes
• •
Polished, leather shoes Dark socks that match shoes and are calf length
• • •
Accessories
• • •
Tie should be conservative in color and length should reach the belt Be conservative with watches and other jewelry Match belt to shoes
• • • • •
Avoid open toed shoes Flats or basic pumps with a 1-3 in heel. No stilettos or platforms Neutral hosiery or trouser socks Simple and conservative Only one pair of earrings Maximum of one ring per hand Simple, small purse or professional bag No backpacks or large purses
Source: (Callahan)