June 22, 2010

Worst Outfits for Job Interviews

Worst Outfits for Job Interviews

While we at Ties-Necktie.com usually give you advice on what to wear, we now want to have a look at some of the worst outfits for job interviews. If you dressed in one of these outfits and didn’t get the job then chances are the first impression ruined any chance to get called back.

Not Looking at the Industry Dress Code
Knowing how to dress according to the type of job you are interviewing for is important. If you are interviewing for a “white collar” profession then suit and tie are a must. While a tie can be left off when applying for a “blue collar” job it is still recommended to slightly overdress than being too casual. Dressing up shows that you care, and it shows the potential employer that you are serious about the job.

Being Too Fashionable
Unless you are applying for an “artsy” profession, you do not want to make a fashion statement during a job interview. Pick a conservative suit, classic white dress shirt, and a tie that is not too loud in color and design.

Too Formal
Never wear a tuxedo, don’t pick a suit with a shawl lapel, and never wear a suit that has any satin fabric finishes. Also to avoid are patent leather dress shoes, solid colored bow ties, pleated dress shirts, or shirts with hidden front buttons. All these are part of black tie attire and should never be worn in a business setting.

Wrong Accessories
Keep the entire outfit professional. This goes beyond suit, shirt, and tie. Make sure that any accessory goes with this professional business look. Things to avoid are backpacks, tennis socks, tennis shoes, and hats.

Proper Grooming
Make sure that you comb your hair and shave. You don’t need to get a new haircut for the interview but make sure that you look clean and well taken care off. This goes beyond hair styling and shaving. Make sure that your clothes are free from wrinkles as well as odor and stain free. Also make sure that your fingers are well manicured and your hands are clean.

The Worst Ties
Never wear so-called novelty neck ties which have a tacky reputation. Novelty ties are supposed to be humorous and should only be worn on very special occasions in business, but never to a job interview. Also to avoid are ties that are too formal and/or too flashy. Solid black, silver, and white ties should be avoided. Keep in mind that you do not want to make a fashion statement. Instead you want to make a professional, reliable, and trustworthy impression.

Other Suggested Reading:
Faux Pas for Skinny Ties
The Budget Business Wardrobe
Job Interview Attire for Men

Your Ties-Necktie.com Team