Dress for the Interview

Gone are the days we are required to wear power suits to an interview. I remember when I first got into real estate, everyone wore suits no matter what. The dress code for an interview was nothing less than trousers, a button down top, a matching jacket and closed toe pumps. Years ago a friend told me at the company she worked for, if someone walked in wearing open toe shoes to an interview, it was almost as bad as not bringing a copy of your resume. Seems a bit extreme to me but it was true.

Although wearing a suit always makes me feel powerful, it also made me feel like we all blended in without the opportunity to express our personal power. Nowadays, even in the most corporate settings, guidelines on dress code for an interview are more relaxed giving us Mamacitas an opportunity to make a statement even if it’s a subtle one. How you dress for your next interview depends on the industry you are interviewing for.

Here’s a few pointers to consider when preparing for your next interview:

Research

Do your research on the company and position you will be interviewing for. Do they seem conservative and formal or are they creative? When researching a company, I always search for their “Meet the Team” page (or something similar). This helps me determine what their culture could be like and will use this as a guide to dress appropriately.

Industry Matters

Are you interviewing for a role in government or corporate finance? If so, you might want to line up your best power suit. Or are you interviewing for a role with a cool fashion or beauty brand? If so, these roles allow for more flexibility and expression. Regardless of what role you are interviewing for, try to add a statement piece that will allow you to stand out. For example, even if you wear a suit, instead of sticking to the typical white button down top, wear one that will add a pop of color. Or add a subtle print to your pants or top. Don’t be afraid to leave your mark.

When in doubt, go with the most classic option - trousers/cropped pants, a button down top and a great pair of heels. This is always a great choice and will always make you look sharp. You could never go wrong with the latest version of the power suit. Remember, it’s better to be overdressed, than underdressed. Most importantly, whatever outfit you choose, make sure you feel comfortable in it. There’s nothing worse than wearing something you don’t feel good in. It can make or break your interview.

Makeup

Your makeup is also part of the package and it should align with your outfit. I prefer to keep it fresh and clean. Nothing too dramatic on the eyes with a neutral lip. There is more flexibility if you are interviewing for a more creative role. Many years ago, I worked for MAC Cosmetics, for my interview, I wore a full face of makeup and it was over the top. For a role like that, the first impression is your makeup and you should spend more time researching and planning around it.

First impressions aren’t only about what you are wearing or your makeup, there a few other factors that will contribute to your success, such as preparation, attitude and performance. For more insight on this, take a look at my previous post where I touch on how to prepare and Nail the Interview. By putting all of these pieces together, you can be sure you will leave a great impression on your interviewer. Practice affirmations and believe what is meant to be yours will be.

Good luck! You’ve got this Mamacita.

Xoxo - G