Jan

31

Women: Four Key Pieces of Your Interview Wardrobe

Posted by Dan

January 31, 2008 |

I admit, not everyone has a corporate job, and there are probably wonderful jobs out there that you can interview for in ripped jeans and a baseball cap. If you find one that I qualify for, please let me know! But for the majority of women interviewing for anything in a business casual to highly conservative environment, there are key pieces you can add to your interview wardrobe that will class up your image, and give you the confidence you need to get the job.

A pair of truly great black heels: If you can’t wear heels for medical reasons find the best flats you can. But for the rest of us, heels will give the impression of a little more effort spent on your outfit, classic black will match almost all interview suits, and quality heels (if you go to the trouble to get them re-soled from time-to-time) will last a long while. Pick a classic style with a heel height you can comfortably walk in for any office tours or long walks from the parking lot.

Pearl earrings: I grew up in the South where pearl earrings were a part of any lady’s jewelry wardrobe. In the workplace, they give off a classic image of polish that dresses up even the most bargain-basement interview suit. Younger women will look more experienced in them and older women will look appropriate. An interview (unless you’re in a design or fashion creative field) is the not the time to show off your flashy and unique taste in earrings. Real cultured pearls can be found at your local department store for as little as $40. If that’s too much for your budget, a good pair of faux pearls will generally pass just fine for the real thing.

A simple black tote or briefcase: One or the other is the key here. You don’t want to bumble in to an interview looking like a bag lady. Your bag should be big enough to hold a calender (to set up your next interview or first day on the job), extra copies of your resume, powder and lipstick, and your keys. Clean out your bag before the interview. Now is not the time for gum wrappers and used kleenex to spill all over the floor. Get the best quality you can afford in a classic style. People will notice your bag, whether you want them to or not- this is no time for sequins, wacky colors, and cheap plastic.

A watch: Whether you spend $5 or $5000, get something that looks good with a suit- avoid large rubber or loud designs. Metal, leather (or pleather if you prefer) and simple. Get something with hands- digital reads a little childish. Pulling out your cell phone to check the time may be a reality of modern life, but trust me on this one- people in charge own watches and wear them.

Accessories make the outfit. Add these key pieces to your interview closet and you can be sure that you look polished and ready to move on to the career you want.


Comments

2 Comments so far

  1. K. Lynn on February 4, 2008 4:06 pm

    As a marketing director for a small home health company, I have the duty of screening and employing marketers. I have developed a pet peeve while exchanging contact information in the field and in interviews with candidates for employment. The thing that gets on my nerves is that women have to dig through their handbags to get to their phones. It’s not professional, nor is it an efficient use of time. I have found that certain cell phone accessories like, lanyards and carrying cases help in this case. I use a lanyard with my personal phone so that it is easy to be found and hard to lose track of. Also, a carrying case fits on my belt so that the phone is readily available within reach. If I don’t wear a belt, the case clip will attach on the outside of my handbag, so it is also easy to grab.

    Amy: Great tip!

  2. cameron on February 6, 2008 7:13 pm

    I always think you should look like you already have the job. Interviewers want successful people, the best. So dress for success.

    Amy: Agreed. I am always surprised by people who ignore appearance on an interview.

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