As they say, you only have one chance to make a first impression and let’s give you the best chance you can have to present yourself in the best possible way.  I have seen too many people lose jobs over their appearance.  You do not want the hiring manager to say you looked like you slept in your clothes.  This is a time to put your best foot forward.

  In all interviewing situations you want to present yourself in a conservative, neutral fashion.  The company should be focused on you and your skill set and not be distracted by a cartoon tie, lime green pants or a leather miniskirt.  The goal is to dress one level above whoever is interviewing you.  Remember it is easier to dress down once you are there than to dress up after you have arrived.  After all, you can always take off the tie and go more casual if the situation dictates but you can never add on a tie midway through the interviewer process.  Since positions and expectations range based on the company and position see the various tips below. 

What to wear:

Large Company/Corporate position

• Solid color (blue, black, grey) conservative suit
• Long sleeve shirt- white is the safest color
• Conservative tie (red, blue or yellow)
• Dark socks, professional shoes (lace up is preferred to loafers)
• Very limited jewelry (wedding band only)
• Neat, professional hairstyle
• No aftershave or cologne
• Clean hands and neatly trimmed nails
• Portfolio or briefcase

Smaller Company with a Relaxed Dress Code

• Navy Blazer
• White button down shirt
• Tie (you can always take it off if you go into the field)
• Dark Socks, professional shoes
• Khaki Pants
• Neat, professional hairstyle
• No aftershave or cologne 
• Clean neat hands and nails

For Jobsite/Field Interview:

• Dress shoes (but bring your work boots)
• Knit collared shirt
• Work Pants/nice quality jeans/khaki pants
• No aftershave or cologne

Tips for Women in Construction:

The dress code for women is similar to that of men.  Think conservative while fashionable.  Dark colored dresses, pant suits and dress suits are appropriate.  Be cautious to not wear high heels or short skirts. Make up should be minimal. 

Other Tips for Everyone:

Do NOT chew gum during the interview

Do NOT smoke (before or during an interview)

Do NOT drink alcohol during a lunch meeting and a maximum of one alcoholic beverage at a dinner meeting but only if the hiring authority orders one first

Men, if you have long hair consider cutting your hair, if not make sure it is held back in a neat pony tail

If you have tattoos, please cover them up.  You want them focusing on you not your body art.

Men, if you wear an ear ring or necklace or large rings, please remove them.  Again, you want the interviewer focus on you and not your “bling”.  A wedding band is the only jewelry you should wear.