Monday, December 19, 2011

Your First Impression May Say It All

You may possess a remarkable skill set, impressive experience and an excellent grade point average. But, you are at a disadvantage if you don’t know how to present yourself to employers. What am I getting at? Professionalism.  More specifically – professionalism and interviewing.

Employers take your interview appearance very seriously. How you dress for that important meeting reflects how much you respect the people you are talking with. Do you take them and their company and opportunities within their company seriously enough to dress your best? If not, why should they make time for you on their already busy schedule?
You need go no further than the video links on our website to see a comprehensive set of guidelines for how to dress for an interview (http://webs.wichita.edu/?u=CAREERSERVICES2&p=/Featured_Videos/).
In brief, wear a solid color, conservative suit and professional shoes. Women, add a coordinated blouse and neutral hoisery.  Men, add a white, gray, or blue solid long sleeve shirt, a conservative tie, and dark socks.  Hairstyles should be neat and professional and nails trimmed and clean. Women, keep makeup to a minimum. A same day shower is imperative and use only very light perfume or aftershave.  Minimal jewelry is advised—one pair of small tasteful earrings is appropriate for women. Otherwise, body piercings need to be covered. The same goes for tattoos. Carry a portfolio containing a pen and several copies of your perfect resume printed on bond paper with a laser printer.  
That’s it. Think “professionalism”. In the words of an employer, “you can never dress too conservatively for an interview”.  In the words of another employer, "why would you shoot yourself in the foot by not dressing professionally?"   
Questions? Call a counselor. We are happy to answer your questions. Or. . .better yet, schedule a mock interview and wear your interview attire. You can practice feeling professional as you practice answering professionally. 
Get a job!
~jan
WSU Career Services    

No comments:

Post a Comment