When it comes to landing the job of your dreams, it’s not just knowledge that you need to be well-versed with. Dressing right is a very important factor in order to make a decent impression when you sit for an interview. And believe us, a good first impression goes a long way. Like it or not, this is the one time you will actually be judged inside-out – right from your body language to the way to talk. Your clothes represent you as an individual and they speak volumes without you even saying a word. Here are some styling tips to help you dress right for the most common types of interviews.
1. For the corporate industry
If you are interviewing for a corporate job like a big law firm, public relations, client servicing etc., then you must know that these industries have a very formal working environment.
How to dress to impress:
Tip 1: Keep it simple. Less is more.
Tip 2: Stay away from loud colours like a bright yellow or a bright pink.
Tip 3: Wear muted colours but always remember to add some character by selecting the right fabric and pattern. (Ex: A pinstriped blazer)
Tip 4: Wear well-fitted trousers with closed mid-heels. This creates a sophisticated look that says you are serious and you know how to work it.
2. For the creative industry
If you are interviewing for a job in the creative industry like photography, writing, film making etc., then you need not necessarily invest in formal pants and pencil skirts. To be able to think out of the box is what the creative industry is all about. But do we always have to dress that way too? The answer is no. When you dress for an interview in such fields, you should be neither too formal nor too casual.
How to dress to impress:
Tip 1: Don’t wear anything distracting since you want your work to do the talking for you.
Tip 2: Don’t try too hard and go overboard with looking the “artsy” kind. Save hipster frames and khadi kurtas at home for the days when you actually start working.
Tip 3: Smart casuals is your look. Dress up a formal blazer with a nice shirt and wear it with your jeans.
Tip 4: Wear colours that complement your personality, but nothing too loud! If you’re going for jeans, wear them in a darker colour, and not washed-out or faded denim.
3. For the start-up industry
In countries like India which are developing at a massive rate, start-up companies are emerging in every field and almost taking over the traditional corporates and big media houses. These companies are based on fresh ideas, have younger employees, and in some ways, they even challenge traditional working standards.
How to dress to impress:
Tip 1: Do NOT dress like you’re going to college just because most of the employees are fresh graduates.
Tip 2: Don’t overdress. Yes, the environment is pretty chilled-out as your seniors might have told you, but you don’t want your clothes to be a distraction.
Tip 3: Wear a casual T-shirt with straight-fitted pants or a plain skirt. If you want to wear heels, then make sure they’re not more than 2.5 inches high.
Tip 4: Don’t dress overly formal. This makes the interviewer think that you have no idea about the nature and working environment of the company.
4. For the fashion industry
If you have received a call for an interview in the fashion industry, then we’re pretty sure you have grilled your brains thinking about what you should wear. Don’t worry – it is not as intimidating as the movies make it sound.
How to dress to impress:
Tip 1: Don’t be overly trendy or edgy just because you know the latest trends and you want the interviewer to notice that.
Tip 2: Being fashion forward helps, but don’t go overboard with donning trends that are not work-appropriate.
Tip 3: Wear stylish but simple clothes that are not distracting.
Tip 4: Be super-attentive to detail. This is what the fashion folks are all about. Pull their focus on accessories, like a gorgeous bag or chic shoes. They speak a thousand words more than an expensive dress ever will.
Images: Shutterstock
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