Mens Interview Attire
"Clothes don't tell the character of the man, but they just as well talk for him as against him" anonymous
First Impressions are very important. This is especially so when it comes to job interviews. What you wear, and how you choose to present yourself in an interview can determine whether or not you will be considered for the position before you even have the opportunity to showcase your skills to the potential employer.
To help you make the correct, informed choices when it comes to suitable men’s interview attire, we have listed below the “What To Wear” and the “What Not To Wear” choices for any prospective job interview.
Related Information
What to Wear on a Job Interview - Mens Interview Attire
Conservative suit. Solid colours such as black, navy blue and grey are best but light patterns such as pinstripes are acceptable choices. (It is important to note that thicker pinstripes on a business suit are generally associated with a higher position of authority. So keep this is mind if you choose to wear pinstripes. You don’t want to step on anybody’s toes especially if you are being interviewed for a lower level role.) Always keep the suit style classic, classy and simple.
Coordinated business shirt. A solid colour is usually best, however light, subtle patterns are acceptable. Always make sure your shirt is wrinkle free, clean, and well tailored. White is considered to be a formal colour and has always been a popular choice. Other great alternatives to white are a light to medium blue shade or pastel colours. There are many great options available nowadays so take the time to see what suits you best.
Pants. Your suit pants should match your suit jacket. Tailored pants are a must. The correct fit is very important. Always make sure your pants have a crisp defined crease.
Ties. Most department stores stock a large range of business shirts that can be purchased with matching ties thus taking the guess work out of the equation for you. If this is not an option you will be using, make sure your tie compliments your suit. A tie is an important part of your attire, and is always noticed during a job interview. So keep it colour coordinated, and simple.
Belt. Make sure to wear a good quality leather belt that matches the colour of your shoes.
Socks. Always wear black business socks. A subtle pattern is acceptable. Your socks should always compliment your suit, not compete with it.
Interview Questions
Shoes. Conservative leather shoes are a classic interview look. It is essential to make sure they are clean or polished. Never wear shoes which look overworn or showing signs of needing repair. If your shoes have laces make sure the laces are in great condition and not fraying. Shoes in poor condition can portray poor management skills, and lack of attention to detail to your prospective employer.
Jewellery. Generally a wedding band or ring and a nice watch are sufficient. To exude a professional image avoid facial or ear piercing. These can prove to be very distracting during a job interview.
Hair. Make sure your hair is presented in a neat, professional style. Keep the style simple, short, and clean cut. Avoid trendy styles which are distracting, or out of place in a formal business environment. Always keep your hair from covering your face, especially your eyes. Eye contact is essential during an job interview so make sure your hairstyle does not allow for your hair to get in the way.
Facial Hair. If you have a moustache or beard make sure it has been trimmed and is kept in a neat manner. Make sure you groom either before a job interview just as thoroughly as you would groom your hair. On the other hand, if you do not have any facial hair make sure you are freshly shaven. A freshly shaven face always gives a cleaner appearance.
Fingernails. Make sure your nails are clean and trimmed. Avoid any sort of nail polish or colour.
Cologne/Aftershave. Keep any cologne or aftershave you wear to a minimum. A light spray or dab will be sufficient.
Bag/Briefcase. Keep anything you carry into the interview to a minimum. A portfolio or leather briefcase is perfect for interviews.
A Great Smile. Yes, it sounds corny, but a smile is just as important as the right attire. A smiling face is always the favoured choice. It makes you more approachable, and can give the employer a real feel for how easily you may fit into being a member of the team.
Personal Hygiene. Always present yourself at your optimum. Make sure you are freshly showered. Grooming is an essential part of your appearance. Make sure your teeth are cleaned and flossed, and your breath is fresh. Why not take a mint with you to have shortly before your interview.
