Your Future 2022

GUIDANCE

What to wear?

Dressing for success is a big part of the interview process.

There’s a saying that ‘You only get on chance to make a first impression’. First impressions do count. And while the trend over the last few years (and especially since Covid) is for more casual work attire, what you wear still matters. It’s true that employers are primarily interested in your skills, but appearing sloppy for an interview, or dressed inappropriately, could hinder your prospects of landing that job.

But in our island culture, what exactly is considered appropriate? We asked the people who matter most and do the hiring, for their expert advice.

Rosewood Tucker’s Point has a complex policy says Sonina Lottimore,

Director of Talent and Culture, and the �������������������������������������� displays appropriate grooming photos as ������������������������������������������ the best practices or appropriate ways to dress for work.

Ms. Lottimore suggests dressing for a level above the position for which you are applying. “Imagine walking into a professional environment and ask yourself what image you would expect there and emulate that. And remember that your attire also shows your personality.”

“Make thoughtful selections when purchasing attire for your job. Some pieces, such as ripped jeans, are not

appropriate for every environment, and consider dark versus light coloured clothing. If you have tattoos, consider �������������������������������������� inappropriate for work and cover them up if necessary. Finally dressing appropriately doesn’t just include clothes. The length and colour of your nails, hair colour, make-up, perfume, shoes and personal hygiene must also be considered.”

Sharai Parris, Director of Talent and Culture at Hamilton Princess Hotel and Beach Club, says “luxury brands like Fairmont, who manage the Hamilton Princess, are still quite reserved so it’s best to err on the side of caution for

10Your Future 2022

GUIDANCE

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be paired easily with a smart casual or business casual shirt.”

“My best advice for young Bermudians is, know your audience and research the company culture by looking at their social media and website. Ask a member of the company’s HR team about what to wear, they would be more than happy to guide a prospective colleague. When in doubt, wear business or business casual attire. You can’t go wrong when you look professional. Even if you’re applying for a role that is never seen by the public and the uniform will be casual, it’s important to demonstrate that you respect the company and interviewer by making

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����������������������������������� that you take pride in your professional reputation and personal brand. Whatever you decide to wear, make sure your ���������������������������������������� small or large. My motto is, when you look good, you feel good, and it shows in your demeanor and attitude.”

���������������������������������� Resources, Lisa Spencer-Arscott says it has a business casual dress code policy in place but when employees meet with clients, they are expected to dress more formally. “We also expect our interviewees to dress in business attire” she stresses.

interviews with any luxury hospitality company.”

“Blazer and tie for men would be appropriate for any leadership role, and ���������������������������������������� operation. For more junior roles, smart or business casual (open neck shirt or polo) ������������������

“For ladies, business dress (business suit or business dress) is appropriate for leadership roles. For more junior roles, business or smart casual would be appropriate

Acceptable casual attire for ladies would be pants and a shirt (not a graphic �������������������������������������� structured knee-length (or longer) dress or similar length skirt with a shirt. ����������������������������������������� be too small or too large.”

“We don’t allow our colleagues to wear facial piercings, but we have relaxed on tattoos. If an employee in a guest-facing role, such as a server, guest experience coordinator (for example, reception desk for spa or front desk agent) has any ��������������������������������������� we would ask them to wear an arm covering.”

“Unacceptable dress would be beach/ resort wear such as sundresses, short ������������������������������������� or slides. We also strongly discourage street wear like jeggings, leggings, sweatpants, ripped jeans, cropped tops, graphic t-shirts, hoodies, or sweatshirts. If a candidate has to wear jeans, it’s best to wear black as it looks smart and can

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12Your Future 2022