DRESSFOR

SUCCESSBy Timothy Augustine

ou have probably heard thesaying, “You never get a second

chance to make a first impression.”But did you know that about 85 per-cent of what you convey during thisfirst impression is through nonverbalcommunication? Therefore, yourdress and visual presence can have aprofound effect on your chances ofobtaining the position you desire.

Perception is everything. How thecompany views you, how you viewyourself and how you want others toview you all play a role in the game ofinterviewing. The manner in whichyou conduct yourself is just as impor-tant as what you say.

Basic RulesIt’s important to dress appropriatelyfor the industry. Conservative firms—

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such as those in the financial, insur-ance and accounting industries—require a very professional appear-ance. However, a relaxed or creativeindustry—marketing, advertising andjournalism—may be more impressedwith a little more individualistic style.Regardless of the situation, flamboy-ance is not a wise choice! You want tobe remembered for what you say,what you have done and what youcan offer the company.

When in doubt, dress up, notdown. It is always better to be moreprofessionally dressed rather than less.While many firms today allow casualdress on a daily basis, the intervieweeshould be professionally dressed.

Be sure your hair is neat andclean. Make sure your fingernails areclean and trim. Check for stains orwrinkles in your clothing. Avoidexcessive cologne. Also, make sureyou brush your teeth or take breathmints with you.

It’s also a good idea to avoid dis-tractions, such as anything that iden-tifies any beliefs or personal associa-tions (like religious beliefs or political

affiliation). In addition, avoid wearingany items that are considered mascu-line for a woman or feminine for aman (for example, a necktie for awoman or an earring on a man).These items are often distractions andcould take the interviewer’s attentionfrom what you have to say.

Inside OutDon’t forget that the most importantthing to wear is a smile. Keep a posi-tive mental attitude. You have workedhard to get where you are and youowe it to yourself. Stand tall, but notstiffly. Show the interviewer you areready and willing to help this compa-ny succeed.

In addition, remember a few othertips. Take a lint roller with you toremove any dog hair, lint or dandruff.Make sure you take a damp washclothin your car, which you can use to cleanand shine your shoes one last time.

Finally, be prepared for inclementweather. Take an umbrella if it is rain-ing, so you don’t arrive waterlogged.If it is snowing, wear boots or galosh-es to the interview and carry your

dress shoes. Change in the lobby, ifneeded. The last thing you want tothink about during the interview iswet socks and pants because you hadto walk through snow.

Last LooksBefore you leave the house, make sureyou’ve covered all the basics. Your hairshould be well-groomed. I recom-mend using hairspray to keep it inplace. If you have a trendy hairstyle,you might consider toning it downfor the interview to match your con-servative professional appearance.

When you look in the mirror, youmust feel good about your appear-ance so that during the interview youcan be focused on what you have tosay. Give the interviewer your best forhis or her first impression. Good luckand look good! ❖

Timothy Augustine is the author of HowHard Are You Knocking? The Job Seeker’sGuide to Opening Career Doors. He is alsoco-owner and managing partner of theHerman Draack Company, an internation-al human resource consulting firm.Contact Tim via his Web site:www.howhardareyouknocking.com.