You're going into an interview. Tensions are high but confidence is key. When you know you look good (and appropriate for the intended job), you'll walk in with your head held high, knowing you're the man for the job. That's why you sweat the little things. You're obviously qualified if they brought you in, so now they want to ask you questions to figure out if you're as good in person as you are on paper. And if you'll fit into their office culture. "Will you work well with our team? Will you carry out our mission and be a great ambassador of our company?" That's what they'll be asking, and it's up to you to answer those questions accordingly. But if you present yourself in a sharp, kempt and professional manner, your presentation won't be a distraction. No distractions = a better interview. So to help you out, we put together a cheat sheet of sorts to guide your interview look based on the type of job you're looking to score.
The Fit
We can't stress this enough. Showing up looking like you've put time and effort into your appearance goes a long way. And nothing communicates that you're someone who masters the details more than clothing tailored to your body. A good tailor can make you look leaner, taller and more powerful—all you need to do is learn to speak your tailor's language.
Creative/Casual Gigs
Avoid any distracting or busy patterns. A simple Oxford cloth button-down or a knit polo and a pair of chinos (sport coat optional) looks polished and professional.
From left to right:
Hennepin chinos, $22.99 by Goodfellow & Co.; Air Oxford shirt, $58 by Everlane; Flex chino blazer, $168 / $99 by J.Crew Factory; Knit polo, $39.90 by Zara
Corporate Environment
A navy or grey suit, crisp white shirt and a dark tie won't let you down. If you don't need to look so serious, you can swap the shirt and tie for a lightweight sweater.
From left to right:
All-season merino suit, $398 by Spier & Mackay; Flecked silk/wool tie, $19 by The Tie Bar; Smartcare dress shirt, $69.50 / $34.75 by Nordstrom; Lightweight merino sweater, $69 by Suitsupply
Your Shoes
A killer outfit with dirty or disheveled shoes, is like fumbling the football at the one yard line. And, as you know, there are no trophies for "almost."
Suited?
Opt for a classic pair of lace-ups in brown or black. Are they flashy or fashion forward? Nope. But do they get the job done (meaning, will they help you get the job)? Absolutely.
Cap-toe oxford, $195 by Jack Erwin
Plain toe derbies, $99.95 by The Rail
Casual?
Go with a pair of simple leather or canvas sneakers, or some clean, suede desert boots. Either choice is comfortable, casual yet stylish.
Canvas low-tops, $65 by Jack Purcell
Suede desert boots, $99 by New Republic by Mark McNairy
The Extras
Consider this your lightning round of things to check before leaving the house.
Deodorant?
Stay dry with a powerful antiperspirant.
Invisible Fresh dry spray,
$5.99 by Dove Men + Care
Breath?
Don't even think about going in there without a mint.
Mini sugarfree peppermints,
$2.48 (for three-pack) by Altoids
Bag?
Keep your pockets free and your phone out of your hand.
Soft leather briefcase,
$489 by Linjer
Modern day briefcase pack,
$199 by The Breton Company
FYI
FYI
FYI
The months where the number of job listings exceed the yearly average? May, June and October. August, however, is typically the worst time to look for a job.
(Source: Workopolis)
