Interview Best Practice - Dress for Success

'What should I wear?' is a question we often ask ourselves and those around us. At social events or work events 'fitting in' means dressing the same (in terms of formality that is). Indeed most business events tell you want to wear (casual, business casual, formal etc). And it is never more so than at an interview.

I once turned up to a pre-Christmas drinks with me and my whole family in red sweatshirts (the instruction had been wear red it's Christmas) only to be greeted by the hostess in a red evening gown. It was a bit of a shock but I had sort of guessed right since the rest of the guests were attired similarly to me.

With non work, and indeed, work dress becoming increasingly informal it can be hard to judge what to wear to an interview. But the advice remains unchanged - go formal.

There could possibly be some exceptions and if you know your genre really well, and the company then you can ‘do your own thing' but take care. Note also that even if you know someone who works there, just because people wear informal to work it does not mean they will not expect you to be formally dressed for interview as an external candidate.

There are some cultural variations but if you play safe and go formal you should get by. Generally the US is a bit more relaxed. Also women can 'get away' with pants suits but they are unlikely to be penalized for a skirt. Thus the advice remains, play it safe and go formal.

For specific suggestions on what to wear and what not to wear read this article