It can be exhausting to prepare for a graduate job interview. It’s easy to forget that you need to dress for success while reviewing the job description, researching the company, and preparing answers to the most common interview questions.
What to wear: Male
Regardless of how relaxed the company’s dress code is, your interview is not the time to try out new trends. It goes without saying that you should dress professionally, but there are some key differences depending on the type of company you are interviewing with.
What to wear to a corporate job interview
When interviewing for a corporate position, wear a well-fitting two-piece suit and a classic shirt. Keep it simple – but if you want to stand out, choose a colorful pocket square or a quirky pair of socks that will allow you to express yourself without being remembered for the wrong reasons. Always, always, always make sure your shoes are smart and perfectly clean!
What to wear to a creative job interview
Creative types can afford to be a little more daring. If you know the dress code is relaxed, pair a well-cut blazer with tailored trousers or smart, slim-fit chinos (which don’t have to match your jacket!)
You’ll still want to look put together, so a plain white shirt is a good choice, but you can always experiment with a different collar to express your personality.
When it comes to shoes, a lace-up brogue or a Derby shoe is your best friend; if you’re feeling adventurous, go for a modern style with a thick sole to make a subtle statement.
What to wear: Female
Choosing the perfect outfit can be a little trickier for girls, because there are so many more options to choose from!
What to wear to a corporate job interview
If you’re going to a corporate interview, great tailoring is essential. It’s always better to be overdressed than underdressed, so invest in a classic pair of pegged trousers with a matching blazer to maintain a polished and refined look.
If you’re concerned about appearing boring, wear a fine printed blouse or add a pop of color to your outfit with a bright bag or watch. There’s no need to risk breaking your ankles with sky-high heels when a pair of pointed-toe flats gives off just as much of a smart vibe without the added pain!
What to wear to a creative job interview
If you’re interviewing for a more creative position, you can (to some extent!) experiment with your outfit.
A pinafore dress is the ideal smart-casual option, and when paired with a long-sleeved roll-neck knit underneath, it can look both polished and comfortable.
If you’ve already figured out the vibe of the office, you’ll know whether or not trainers are appropriate, but if you’re in doubt, go with a safe bet – a pair of smart ankle boots or flats that will tie the whole look together.
What to wear for a Video Interview
Have a video interview coming up and aren’t sure what to wear? Here are some pointers on how to dress to impress virtually!
Dressing appropriately for a video interview is just as important as dressing appropriately for the company’s culture and environment. Before your interview, do some research on the company to get a sense of what’s appropriate.
If you’re wearing a suit and tie, choose a solid color for both rather than patterned, as this can create a ‘buzz’ effect on camera, drawing attention away from what you’re saying.
Lighting is equally as important as what you wear on a video interview – be sure to adjust the lighting in the room so you can be clearly seen and you are centered in the camera. If you wear glasses, play around with the lighting to reduce glare from your lenses.
While it’s unlikely the interviewer will only see your upper half, it’s still a good idea to wear professional trousers and bottoms in case you have to stand up for any reason, this will also help you get in the interview mind-set.
What not to wear to an interview
Wearing certain outfits may give employers the wrong impression and hurt your chances of landing a job. Here’s what you shouldn’t wear to an interview:
Avoid wearing the following items to a job interview because they may suggest you don’t take pride in your appearance and aren’t taking the interview seriously.
The majority of these items apply to corporate job interviews, as creative companies with a more youthful and relaxed culture are likely to be less concerned with interview attire. However, if you’re interviewing for a creative role/company, avoid wearing a suit and anything overly formal.
What not to wear to an interview Male
- Low-rise trousers
- Shorts
- Visible undergarments
- Overly ripped jeans
- Flip-flops
What not to wear to an interview Female
- Visible undergarments
- Overly high heels
- Don’t go overboard with make-up – let your personality do the talking!
