The Right Clothes Can Help You Get the New Career or Promotion
How you look is a big factor in the business world. This is true both for job interviews and for those who are already in a position. Whether you are just starting out in your career or have been in a position for a long time and are looking to move up, the way you present yourself says a lot to those who evaluate you.
Dressing for the Job You Want: The Job Interview
For those who are just trying to get their foot in the door, first impressions are always important. While people don’t like to think they are being evaluated on their appearance, it happens all the time. An employer is looking at a resume and getting an idea of the potential the candidate has and creating an image of that candidate in his or her head. Your job is to fulfill that image in as many ways as you can, including physically.
If you are new to the field and are unsure as to what someone in your desired position wears to work, research it. Ask people who work in this field or visit the location a day in advance and take note of what the employees are wearing. Some fields of work (law, banking, insurance) prefer traditional dress, such as suits, while other occupations (advertising, editorial, computers) look for creative types.
Dressing for the Job You Want When You Want a Promotion
When you are looking for a better job in your field or company, take a cue from those in positions above you. Pay attention not only to what style they wear, but to the quality of the fabric and the color. Is it worsted wool in dark colors? Have you ever seen them wear linen or polyester? Do they mix and match in their wardrobe or stay with matched tops and bottoms?
Those who dress more professionally are more likely to be taken seriously. Just be careful not to overreach. Your employer knows how much money you make, and you don’t want them to wonder how you were able to afford your clothing. You also don’t want your employer to think think you are moonlighting or interviewing at other places during your lunch hour.
Make sure that your new look does not come off as “playing a part”. In most cases, this means keeping your personal style and taste but raising the formality up a notch. If your new position would require a jacket, make sure it is a well-fitted jacket. If necessary, take it to a tailor. Younger women can easily look like they are playing dress-up if the clothing is the least bit oversized. If dress shoes are in order, choose a heel that you can walk in and dial down the sex appeal by choosing a thicker heel if you want height. Narrow heels are better reserved for lower-heeled shoes.
The right clothing choice will have you well on your way to that new job.