They say that you never get a second chance to make a great first impression. If so, taking time to ensure that the first impression you make is a good one should be a top priority for anyone preparing to go on a job interview.
Remember, a job interview is not an opportunity to "express yourself." You're there to show potential employers you're a better investment than the dozens of other applicants they're considering. Don't give them an easy reason to say "No."
Following are some essential "dos" and "don'ts" for men and women that will help set a positive tone with potential employers before you even utter your first word:
For Women
Do: Dress conservatively. Avoid showing (distracting) cleavage and wear either pants or a moderate-length skirt. (Your skirt should cover your thighs when you're seated.)
Don't: Over-accessorize. Wear only one pair of earrings. You might even leave your purse in the car.
Do: Make sure your hair is neatly cut and styled.
Don't: Dye your hair an unnatural color or wear a style that is overtly "radical."
Do: Make sure your nails are well-manicured. Use either a clear or subtle red polish.
Don’t: Sport dagger-like nails or use bright or gaudy colors.
Do: Wear subtle or no perfume.
Don't: Wear patterned hosiery or go bare-legged.
For Men
Do: Wear a business suit or sport coat along with a neutral-colored shirt and tie.
Don't: Wear a short-sleeved shirt (especially with a tie), or choose a tie whose pattern clashes with your shirt or jacket.
Do: Shave, get a haircut and clean your nails.
Don't: Wear jewelry (except for a wedding ring or class ring) and/or heavy cologne.
Do: Make sure your socks match your shoes.
Don't: Wear socks so short that people can see your hairy legs when you sit and cross your knees.
Do: Get a shoe shine.
Don't: Wear sneakers or athletic shoes, even if they cost $200 a pair.
Do: Make sure your belt and shoes match.
Don't: Wear rumpled clothes or suits that look like they came right off the rack. Note: If you are wearing a new suit or sport coat, make sure you've removed all the tags!
For Men & Women:
Do: Leave the sunglasses, iPods, earphones and other accessories in your car or briefcase.
Don't: Wear facial piercings, tongue jewelry or bear visible tattoos.
Do: Stand up straight, sit erect—and smile.
Don't: Chew gum or, worse yet, smoke a cigarette.
Do: Get that job!
To Earn That Job, You Need an Education!
The first step in qualifying for virtually any job is to have the appropriate education. Everest makes it possible for people eager to enter a variety of industries to get the professional career training they need. Some programs can be completed in less than a year. Popular career fields include medical assisting, dental assisting, massage therapy, criminal justice, accounting, business and IT. Diploma, Associate, Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programs are available (depending on location). Programs and schedules vary by campus. Financial aid is available for those who qualify.
For information on professional career training education, campus locations, job placement services for graduates and financial aid information, contact Everest today!
