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5-08-2021

The importance of how you look & dress in a job interview

The truth is that people make their first impression of you based on what you are wearing and how you are looking. Even though it is not the right thing, our brain is responsible for this. Accordingly to researchers, our brain tells us to trust what we see, more than any other human sense.
For this reason, you have to consider what image do you want to project. You have to ask yourself how you would like other people to describe you based on the first impression.

Besides this, our looks have an impact on ourselves as well. The way we dress can inspire the way we feel. We are not in the same mood wearing a tuxedo suit or an evening dress and our pajamas.
The way we look, and dress, has a significant impact not only in our social life but in our career as well.
It is extremely important when having a job interview to have the appropriate appearance. By appropriate, I mean an appearance that fits the position you want to apply. For example, if the interview is for a sales position, your appearance has to be more professional and serious and give the message of trust and credibility. On the other hand, if the interview is for a designer’s position, your appearance has to be modern and fresh and give a sense of creativity and inspiration.
When going for a job interview, you have to keep in mind that the objective of an interview is to build the connection. The interviewer already knows your background from your CV. So, you need to look good. You need to create the right first impression!

How to show them, without even saying a word, that you belong there

The way you look can affect the way people communicate with you. Your clothing is a part of your appearance that gives information about who you are to others. An appropriate style will help you to adjust quickly, to be accepted faster to the working environment, and to gain the respect of your colleagues.

Different work environments need different styles

The workplace defines your outlook. Every company has its own culture and rules, and the dress code is usually one of them. In some companies, you will have the freedom to choose your outfit, but some others are stricter with the outfit you should wear at work. In any case, you have to respect the companies’ rules.

Let's buy smart!

You don’t have to spend a fortune to get the right look. You can save money by combining low-priced items with more expensive ones. Investment pieces, like a beautiful briefcase, or a wool coat, can make even a cheap outfit looks classic and elegant.

Have you been paying attention what others wear?

No, better to pay attention to what you are wearing! You have to find your own style, a style that fits your personality, body type, and lifestyle.

The right first impression

The dress code for a job interview depends on the job description. There are though a few simple generic rules you have to follow for the right first impression:

  • Look confident and sure about yourself and your skills
  • Have a nice clear and smiley face
  • Use clean and neat clothes
  • Have a decent hairstyle (and makeup for women)
  • No exaggerations!

Good luck & look good!

About the author
Marianna Vakalopoulou, CEO at StylistaaS

Marianna is the CEO of StylistaaS, professional stylist and personal coach with more than 15 years of experience at almost every aspect of the fashion market.
Proven Business and Marketing executive with a demonstrated history of working in the apparel, media and fashion industry. Marianna is skilled in User Experience, Advertising, Sales, Retail, and E-commerce. She is a strong business development professional, and co-founder of two successful startups.

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