Dress to Win T

If you want to win, you have to dress the part first.

here is no doubt that your resume and skill set are important. But, because first impressions are usually formed minutes into meeting someone, your presentation – from your posture to handshake – can make or break your application in an interviewer’s or recruiter’s eyes.

First impressions often stick and they can be formed through a multitude of ways: from your attire, appearance and even the way you approach others. This is often true in the case of recruiters who usually start assessing your suitability for the job right from the start.

Immaculate ensembles and well-fitting clothes imply enthusiasm for the position, while sloppy attire and popping buttons that may fly off at any moment tend to suggest disinterest; some interviewers may even interpret it as a form of disrespect.

This makes dressing well to win all the more vital during networking sessions and interviews, especially in the wake of the global pandemic, where many have not updated their wardrobes. After all, in a time when in-person engagement is becoming ever more common, clothes can leave an impression that is not only good, but lasting as well!

General Guide

Hair and makeup

• To stay presentable and professional, keep your hair close to its natural colour and avoid adding eye-catching colours. Keep it neat by brushing it out or retaining your hair in a ponytail. Ensure your fringe does not fall into your eyes by styling or pinning it back

• If you are putting on makeup, go for a natural look as putting on too much makeup may unsettle or distract those around you

• Invest in some mints and make sure to check your teeth and breath before your interview

• Wear dresses suitable for office wear. If you would rather play it safe, choose dark pantsuits or skirt suits. You may wish to bring along a blazer or jacket to complete the look. But when you get to the interview or networking session, observe the surrounding atmosphere on how casual or formal it is before adding or shedding layers, if needed

• Make sure you can sit comfortably in your slacks and that it is not too tight. Blouses or shirts should be light-coloured but not faded. Avoid wearing spaghetti or strapless tops

• If you are wearing a skirt or a dress, make sure the hemline is slightly above the knee with a respectable length remaining when you sit or bend down. For dresses, ensure the fabric is not too sheer or bright in colour. Look out for low necklines or gaps in between buttons

• Ensure attire is well-fitted, and not too loose or tight

• Keep your hair short, tidy and well-kept with your fringe out of your eyes. Refrain from dyeing it in shocking colours or putting it up in outrageous styles

• Keep your nails trimmed down to an acceptable length and consider investing in lip balm if your lips are prone to cracking when dry

• If you intend to keep facial hair, keep it neat. Otherwise, go with a clean-shaven look

• If you had a meal prior to your interview, check your teeth and breath. You should carry some mints too, just in case

• Keep it classy and sophisticated with a fitted cotton shirt and a suit and tie. Match your ensemble with plain dark socks and shoes

• Make sure the jacket of your two-piece suit fits your shoulders and waist snugly. While there is nothing wrong with wearing the classic black-and-white combination, you can also consider other dark colours such as navy blue and grey. When you sit down, your pants should cover your ankles

• Take a look at the environment during your interview or networking session. Add or shed layers depending on how casual or formal your surroundings are

• Ensure attire is well-fitted, and not too loose or tight

Accessories

• Forgo gaudy accessories as they tend to be distracting, and do not wear more than a pair of simple earrings

• If you know you will either be standing or walking a lot, favour comfortable footwear options like flats or two- to three-inch heels in plain colours

• Nails should be neatly trimmed. If you are planning to wear nail polish, stick to a colour that matches your lipstick

• Avoid backpacks and clutches and opt for messenger, satchel or tote bags instead

Dressing Up

• Ensure the colour of your shoes matches your belt, if you are wearing one, and that the buckle is plain and not too flashy

• Wear dark- or neutral-coloured ties that do not fall past your belt when worn

• If you want to primp up your outfit with cufflinks or tie clips, choose simple designs so that you do not distract the interviewer or recruiter

• Do not wear more than one ring and stay away from earrings or studs completely

Smart Casual

When the occasion does not call for formal wear but still requires you to look presentable, follow this dress code. Commonly found in the engineering and IT industries, employees in startups and R&D roles often opt for this style of dress, too.

Him Her

• Dresses

• Shirts or blouses

• Skirts or jeans

• Wedges, flats or low-to-medium heels

• Polo tees or shirts

• Pants, jeans or chinos

• Dress shoes or loafers

Business Casual

In the event you still need to look presentable, but the occasion calls for more than the smart casual style of dressing, go with business casual. This dress code can be found in the public sector, media and FMCG industries, as well as marketing.

Him Her

• Dresses

• Tops or shirts with long- or three-quarter-sleeves

• A-line or pencil skirts

• Dress pants

• Wedges, flats or low-to-medium heels

• Long-sleeved shirts

• Pants

• Dress shoes

• Cufflinks, ties and jackets are optional

Business Formal

Usually found in industries such as the banking and finance sector. Follow this style of dress for networking sessions and job interviews with potential employers, as well.

Him Her

• Work dresses

• Tops or shirts with long- or three-quarter-sleeves

• Pencil skirts

• Dress pants

• Flats or low-to-medium heels

• Business suits or blazers

• Long-sleeved shirts

• Pants

• Dress shoes

• Cufflinks

• Plain ties

• Dark-coloured suits