Does it really make a difference how you dress for an interview? In many cases, it does.

The first impression you make on a potential employer is the most important one. The first judgement an interviewer makes is going to be based on how you look and what you are wearing. That's why it's always important to dress professionally for a job interview.

In our job as recruiters we have seen it all. Candidates for office jobs wearing jeans, sweatshirt, and sneakers. Other applicants weren't afraid to show pierced body parts and spiked hair. Still others chewed gum or showed up in rumpled clothes or with their pants falling down - jeans halfway down your backside with underpants showing may be fashionable, but it is not a suitable look for an interview.

Without a doubt outlandish dress costs some candidates the job.

If the business is conservative, appearances do matter. In other environments it isn't as important. However, it does make sense to dress your best for the interview, regardless of the dress code at the organisation. If you're in doubt about how to dress for an interview, it is best to err on the side of conservatism. It is much better to be overdressed than underdressed (or undressed). If you're not sure, check with the person who scheduled the interview and ask.

55% of another person's perception of you is based on how you look. Here's a quick look at the basics:

Women's Interview Attire

  • Solid colour, conservative outfit
  • Moderate shoes
  • Limited jewellery
  • Neat, professional hairstyle
  • Sparse make-up & perfume
  • Manicured nails
  • Portfolio or briefcase

Men's Interview Attire

  • Solid colour, conservative suit
  • White long sleeve shirt
  • Conservative tie
  • Dark socks, professional shoes
  • Very limited jewellery
  • Neat, professional hairstyle
  • Go easy on the aftershave
  • Neatly trimmed nails
  • Portfolio or briefcase