How To Dress For An Interview

The fate of most interviews is decided within the first few minutes. The interviewer forms a first impression based on your looks, dress and appearance. Usually, this first impression carries till the end of the interview and also affects the result of the interview. It would not be wrong to say that how you look affects how you fare at an interview. This is why you must dress properly for an interview even if the work setting and environment is casual. Remember, your first impression should not merely be good, it has to be GREAT! 

1. The Attire: For an Indian setting, a Sari is the best choice. However, if you are comfortable with Western clothes, you could also wear a business suit. But make sure that you won’t stand out wearing Western attire. If wearing a sari, go for pastel colours in starched cotton fabric. There should be very little, if any, detailing on the sari. A simple thin border would be perfect. If wearing a business suit, choose a solid colour like black, navy blue or dark grey. Choose a light coloured blouse to coordinate with your suit. 
   
   
2. Decency: Your formal attire should not be revealing or screaming for attention. So the sari blouse cannot be very low cut or revealing. If wearing a skirt, it should not be too tight or too short. Nylons must accompany a skirt and should be in neutral/skin colour. 
   
   
3. Shoes: The shoes must be formal looking, clean and well polished. Closed-toed shoes are the best bet. You could also choose pumps if you prefer. Your shoes should not have too high heels and should be comfortable to walk in. 
   
   
4. Jewellery: Less is more here. Keep your jewellery to a minimum. If wearing earrings, keep them small, simple and classy. Avoid danglers or shiny chunky jewellery. Remember, no jewellery is better than cheap jewellery. So avoid oxidised pieces. If you have a pierced nose, keep it devoid of jewellery. 
   
   
5. Make-Up & Perfume: Wear very light make-up and perfume. You are not going for a modelling assignment, so keep the enhancements to a bare minimum. Your fragrance should be subdued and classy. 
   
   
6. Grooming: Tidy up for the interview at least a day in advance. Get your hair cut neatly and make sure you have clean and well manicured nails. Have your eye brows done neatly and bleach your facial hair, if need be. Bags: Avoid carrying a purse or an oversized bag. Carry a briefcase or a portfolio for a more professional appearance.
   
   
7. Avoid: Don’t carry your cell phone, chewing gum, iPod and other things that don’t add up with your professional image.