Successful Job Interview Attire for Men

Outfits that Will Help in Getting That New Job

With US unemployment rates soaring to record highs over the last 18 months, more men and women find themselves searching for new work. After having e-mailed countless of resumes and cover letters to dozens of companies, it is just a question of time before you will get called in for a face to face interview. But companies that are hiring have lots of choices these days. Few companies have job openings, and those that do can now choose from a huge pool of qualified applicants. Getting called in for a face-to-face meeting is your time to shine. Countless of studies have shown that first impressions are made within the first few seconds of meeting someone, meaning that looks and outfits are much more important than most employers would admit. Use this to your advantage! Dress your part and leave a memorable, professional impression.

Suit or No Suit
Regardless of what industry you are applying for, wearing a suit is must. Even if you are applying for a blue-collar job that will never require suit, tie, or dress shirt, aim for a professional suit and tie look. Dressing up will show your employer that you are serious about wanting the job. It shows that you took your time to prepare and the interviewer will immediately think of you as responsible and reliable.

Now it is time to pick the right suit. First lets insure a proper fit. Make sure the suit fits at your shoulders and that the sleeves have the right length (so that 1/4 - 1/2 inch of your dress shirt cuff is showing). Your trousers should also be hemmed just right. A good rule of thumb here is that 1-2 inches of your socks should be showing when sitting, and when standing, the trousers should hug the heel of your shoes without dragging over the ground.

Choose a suit that is not too flashy. Best are solid colored, pattern-less fabrics. What color suit is best? Dark navy blue or charcoal gray. Avoid black suits since they are too formal looking as well as are sometimes associate with funeral attire. Since blue is a color that is associated with calmness and loyalty, the navy blue suit will be your best choice. Please view our article titled Meaning of Colors for more information on this topic.

Shirt, Tie, and Shoes
Aim for a look that is elegant, professional, and rather conservative than over-the-top trendy. Keep this in mind when choosing a shirt and tie. Best are classic white dress shirts. The best necktie colors are burgundy and navy blue in solid colors, fine patterns, and stripes. Avoid so-called novelty or big picture ties! For your shoes choose classic black dress shoes. Make sure that you give them a nice shine before the interview. Your socks should be dark navy blue when wearing a navy suit, and gray or black when wearing a suit in the shade of gray. For more information on what NOT to wear you may want to read our article on Mens Office Wear Faux Pas.

Your Ties-Necktie Team