Dressing to Get the Job…

Dressing to Start a Career…

Dressing for Professional Success…

Why Does What I Wear Matter?

Most job applicants underestimate the importance of dressing appropriately for a job interview, especially in light of today’s trends toward business casual attire. When seeking a job it’s irrelevant what dress policy the prospective employer has for its employees. Always aim for a polished and conservative appearance that will convey your professionalism and serious about getting the job.

The job market is competitive . You want to convince an employer that, among al the candidates, you are the right one for the job. To do so you need the right qualifications, a professional resume, effective interviewing skills, and a great first impression.

The job interview is not the place to emphasize your unique personality. The following guidelines emphasize how to demonstrate, through your attire, your fit into the law office/corporate culture.

Rules for All Applicants:

• Dress in conservative colors, such as navy, charcoal grey, dark brown.
• Shoes should be clean and polished – no sandals!!
• Trousers should be hemmed to avoid dragging on the floor.
• Keep piercings to a minimum. No tongue rings!!
• Hair should be professional and well-groomed.
• Men should be clean shave or beard/mustache neatly trimmed.
• Glasses clean, not smudged or dirty.
• Clean teeth…Fresh breath.
• Fingernails should be spotless.
• No gum, candy or food should be present.
• Try to cover tattoos.
• Keep perfume or aftershave to a minimum.
• Carry a small briefcase or leather portfolio in which you’ll carry extra copies of your resume, writing samples and references, a pad with your questions already written down, and a pen for taking notes.

How Men Should Dress:

A two-piece conservative dark suit

A white or light blue long-sleeve dress shirt

Subtle patterned coordinating tie

A belt

Dark socks

Dark, polished, clean shoes

How Women Should Dress:

A two-piece conservative dark skirted- or pant-suit

Coordinated blouse in short or long sleeve with conservative neckline

Skirt should be knee-length or slightly longer

Close-toed dress shoes with 1-2” heel

Neutral pantyhose with no snags or runs

Conservative makeup

Minimal jewelry

Neutral, chip free nail polish

If you carry a purse, make it simple and coordinated to your outfit

Additional Tips:

• Examine your interview outfit the day before and make sure it looks good and fits properly.
• Leave your school logo or other brandings at home – don’t carry anything with you that is too commercial.
• Get to the interview early and check yourself out one last time.
• Leave your coat, hat, umbrella, etc with the receptionist.