Interview Dress and Grooming Tips

International Business College has
been a leader for many years in the
“business world” of work. During
your course of study here at IBC,
business dress will be discussed in
more that one of your classes. Let’s
look at what is considered proper
business attire for an interview and
even after you are on the job.
 Consider a conservative interview
“uniform”. Some styles are
almost always acceptable in certain jobs.
For men working in an office, a conservative
approach might include slacks, sports
jacket, solid-color shirt and a conservative
tie. Women have more alternatives, but a
simple tailored skirt,
matching jacket, and a
white blouse are always
safe choices. An
interview is not the
time to be trendy or
make a fashion statement.
 Don’t wear jeans,
tank tops, shorts, or
other very casual clothing.
Some clothing,
even if it looks good on
you, isn’t good for a
serious interview. If in doubt about anything
you are thinking of wearing, don’t
wear it.
 Details count. It has been known
that some employers react to the condition
and style of a job seekers shoes. Dirty or old
shoes were an indication of someone who
was sloppy and would not work hard. Little
things do count, so pay attention to everything
you wear. Ladies, little jewelry, no
big earrings or rings on every finger.
 Keep your grooming simple and
again “conservative”. Hair neatly
combed and styled, make-up to a minimum,
perfumes and after shave lightly
or not at all.
Different jobs and organizations require
different styles of dress. For example, a
person looking for a job as an auto mechanic
would dress differently than
someone looking for an office job. You
will have to make your own decisions
about what is right for the job that interests
you. If in doubt, just ask; we are here to help
you succeed.
-Alice Schultz, Career Services Department