Professional attireProfessional attire

““Dress for success”Dress for success”

One of the most overused phrases in job-hunting

Also one of the most underutilized by job-seekers

Students especially are common under-dressers!

You should even try dressing for success at school rather than breaking the dress code daily!

You are marketing a product: You are marketing a product: YOUYOU

The FIRST thing an employer sees in greeting you is your attire

Dressing properly will not get you the job, but it could PREVENT you from being considered.

This is a good example of BAD attire!

Inappropriate attireInappropriate attireMini skirtsPlunging necklinesSkin-baring topsTight clothingStilettosDenimSweatsSneakers or athletic shoesSpaghetti strapsT-shirts

What to wear?What to wear?

Dressing conservatively is always the safest route

You do not have to spend a lot of money, but you should have at least two professional sets of attire

Preparing for dressing for successPreparing for dressing for success

Wear clean and polished conservative dress shoes (no flip flops or running shoes)

Have a clean, well-groomed hairstyleHave clean and trimmed fingernailsWear minimal cologne or perfumeWear light makeup, rather than heavy

Interview attire, girlsInterview attire, girls

Standard:◦Always wear a jacket.◦A dark navy or gray

skirted suit is preferred. Beige or brown are acceptable.

◦Skirt length should be at the knee or below, never shorter than the knee.

◦Avoid tops that are frilly, sheer, or low-cut

◦Avoid wearing a dress unless it has a jacket

Interview attire, guysInterview attire, guys

Standard◦ Wear a conservative dark navy or gray two-piece

business suit, OR a conservative sports coat with nicely pressed dress slacks

◦ White long-sleeved button-down dress shirt◦ A conservative silk tie◦ Nicely polished dress shoes◦ Your belt should always match your shoes◦ Trimmed facial hair if you have a beard or

mustache

Key Wardrobe Work PiecesKey Wardrobe Work Pieces

◦Black skirt and white blouse/shirt are workplace essentials

◦Cardigan, jacket◦Dress pants◦Scarves◦Handbags◦Coat or classic trench

for cooler weather

Preparing for dressing for successPreparing for dressing for success

No visible body piercing beyond conservative ear piercings for women

No visible tatoosHave well-brushed teeth

and fresh breathDo not chew gum or

candyWear minimal jewelry

With …With …Cover letters – it’s the

opening paragraph and a quick scan of your qualifications.

Resumes – it’s a quick scan of your accomplishments

With an interview – it’s how you’re dressed that sets the tone

Create a strong, positive imageCreate a strong, positive image