What not to wear: job interview edition

Picking out the right outfit to an interview or to the first day on the job can be a big problem for many college students.

Nothing is worse than being underdressed, even if it’s at the beach. It’s worse if you’re underdressed for a job interview.

You must dress for success if you want to be taken seriously. Research what the dress standard is in whatever setting you are interviewing for, and then go above that. 

“You should always aim to dress above your interviewer,” said Amanda Mars, hiring manager with Dick’s Sporting Goods. “It is always better to be overdressed than underdressed. It shows how much you respect and desire the position.”

CareerBuilder.com lists of items you can double-check your wardrobe with before the interview. 

Some of the more important items on the list include staying away from: overly bright or large-patterned clothing, sandals, jewelry on men (excluding a wedding ring), facial piercings or tattoos and strong-smelling colognes or perfumes.

Make sure that what you are wearing still looks appropriate when your interviewer offers you a seat. Ladies, that means avoid short skirts. While the interviewer may find you attractive, they won’t be taking you seriously on a professional level.

The bottom line is if you think someone might find what you are wearing distasteful or inappropriate, don’t wear it. Err on the side of caution and be confident. The company is looking for someone to fill a position, and it could be you if you dress well.