Going on a job interview can be a very stressful experience. You have to be able to present yourself in the best possible light and show the potential employer why you are the perfect candidate for the job. So it comes as no surprise that dressing the right way can have a big impact on the whole process. But not all companies have strict dressing codes. You need to do a bit of research beforehand about the company you are applying to and find out if it is a less formal company.
What to Wear For a Casual Job Interview?
If you have an interview at a startup company or a company with less formal dress rules, the best and safest choice is to opt for a business casual option. What does this mean? Simply put, business casual attire is less formal than a suit, but will still leave the impression of professionalism and seriousness.
For men, this could mean selecting a shirt with no tie and khaki pants, along with shoes or sneakers that look like shoes. Women can opt for sweaters, different shirts, cardigans, pants or skirts. Some companies, especially in warmer climates, are ok with you wearing elegant and cool sandals to the interview.
Casual But Not Too Causal
If you are in doubt about what to wear for a job interview, this trick will ensure that you make the best impression on a potential employer, Always dress for a shade more formal than the average employee of the company. Of course, this is why researching the company beforehand is important.
For example, if a company employee is wearing a casual jacket, you can put on a business casual one. if the dress code is business casual, come to the job interview dressed professionally in a jacket and tie. In this way, you give the impression of a professional person who takes care of himself and who is familiar with the climate prevailing in the company.
What Accessories to Wear?
Wearing different accessories along with clothing often makes a crucial detail in personalizing your look. Both men and women pay a lot of attention to this segment. However, when it comes to dressing for a job interview, you need to know one rule, less is more. Avoid too many accessories, especially the extravagant ones. Women should avoid large earrings, lots of bracelets or strikingly painted nails. Men should not wear any jewelry except watches and wedding rings if they are married.
Avoid hats, as a covered head on an interview could mean a sign of disrespect. There are some companies that are ok with the hat style, but it’s a wise move to always take it off, just in case. You want to be professional, and you will not achieve it if you are dressed as if you were going to an extravagant fashion show or beach.
Hairstyles should be neat and professional. Casual does not mean just letting yourself go. If you have piercings in unusual and visible places, it would be a good idea to take them out for a job interview. If you have tattoos, wear shirts with long sleeves, you can always roll them up if you feel that it might be ok to show them off.
Disclosure: This article was written by a guest author.