The Job Interview

So you have been selected for an interview for your dream job. No need to be stressed. Often noted as one of the most stressful situations in your career, hopefully, I can impart some wisdom and lessons to aid in alleviating some of that pressure, so it's no longer a concern. In your interview, you should be focussed entirely on the interviewer's questions and your responses. You don't want to be worried that your potential employer has noticed your suit doesn’t fit, or that your shirt is missing a button.

Dressing right for your job interview is another step in your preparation for the big day - just like researching the company - you want to be prepared. Below are my essential rules on how to dress for your interview, establishing your personal brand at first sight, and leaving a lasting impression.

1. Personal brand is important -

Your personal brand is the immediate thought which comes to people's minds when they hear your name. Building a personal brand isn’t easy- it takes time and consists of many different factors. One of those factors is your physical appearance. Consider how you want to viewed by your colleagues and leaders in the business, and dress in the way that allows others to recognise and associate you with that brand.

The saying, dress for the job you want, not the job you have, is true in for any job interview. Remember to dress for success, but not too successfully. Heed this lesson, I have made this mistake in my career. You don’t want to project the impression that you don’t need to work-you should aim to demonstrate to your potential employer that you understand the importance of presentation.

2. Keep it simple -

Your wardrobe choice can dim the bright things you're saying in your interview. Wearing branded and expensive clothing can inadvertently convey too much confidence. Avoid loud colours and prints, you don’t want to come across like you are trying too hard. Wear what you expect you will wear to the job.

3. Research your potential employer's dress code policy –

Read through the company's website or run an internet search to help inform you of the dress code. Most companies will have staff videos online that will give you a feel of the office dress code. You can ask friends and peers that have, or currently work at that company or industry, for guidance on the workwear.

If all your internet searching has not informed you of the dress code, another option, is to look for yourself. Try to visit the office premises during the week - have lunch or grab your coffee nearby where you can observe employees entering and leaving the building, which will give you a feel for how the employees dress.

4. No jeans allowed -

Jeans are a risky choice in any professional environment, even on casual Friday. If the office setting is casual five days a week, it is best to lean on the "smart" side of casual clothing. Always wear dark navy or neutral colour pants.

5. Sock choice -

Match your socks to your trousers. I understand there is a large number of people that convey personality through their sock choice - I don’t disagree with this, and have been that guy as well. However, interview day is not the day to do so. You want to ensure your interviewer is paying attention to you, not your cartoon character printed socks.

6. Dial back the accessories: Less is more -

pocket squares, tie clips and cufflinks can be omitted from your outfit. We may be fans of a little flash, but not everyone is a fan. All people have unconscious biases, and you don’t want to remind your interviewer of a mogul or movie character that oozes the wrong charm.

7. Hair -

I won’t tell anyone how their hair should be cut, but only suggest that you have it cut before your interview. You will feel comfortable and confident of your appearance, which will translate to your enhanced focus and performance at your interview.

8. Suiting up -

A suit is always a safe bet when attending a job interview and you should know the rules. If possible, no black suit! Navy and grey convey trustworthiness and are less severe.

9. Footwear -

My grandfather and many of the men I respect in my career, have always paid attention to people's shoes, as it conveys underlying aspects of one's personality. Always wear appropriate shoes and ensure they are clean and polished.

10. White Shirt -

Safe is best when it comes to your interview. A clean, crisply pressed white shirt is always the right choice. Make sure to drink your coffee before putting your shirt on. You want to be remembered for the right reasons, a stain on your shirt can be a stain on your impression, and impressions last.