What to Expect From Them and What to Wear to an Interview.

by Kadian
(Jamaica)

What to Expect From Them and What to Wear to an Interview.

Answer:

Hi Kadian,

You can expect that the interviewer(s) will be seated in front of you with a list of interview questions that they will ask you. You are likely to be asked to tell them about yourself, so be prepared to do so.

After you answer all of their questions, you will typically get a chance to ask questions of your own.

Depending on the type of position, there may be one interviewer or there may be two or more. They are usually dressed professionally and will expect for you to be dressed professionally as well.

Your clothing is a form of non-verbal communication. You want your attire to say that you are professional, and that you put forth effort to make a good impression.

General guidelines for interview attire are outlined below.

There will be some exceptions to these rule. For example, if you are going to an interview to be a mechanic, the hiring manager may not expect you to wear a suit.

It never hurts to ask the interviewer while scheduling the interview, if you want to be sure.

My rule of thumb is that it is better to be over-dressed (too formal) than under-dressed (too casual).

Interview Attire for Men

Suit: Black, navy blue, or dark grey business suit with a silk tie and with a long-sleeved, collared shirt. A light color such as white, light blue, or cream is best for the shirt.

Shoes: Clean, dark colored, polished shoes, with no scuff marks. Lace-ups or slip-ons. It is a good idea for your belt to match your shoes. Wear black socks, at least calf length so your skin does not show between the top of your socks and your pants while seat.

Jewelry: Wear little or no jewelry. If you do wear jewelry, wear conservative watch and only a wedding ring or a class ring. It is a good idea to remove your earrings.

Grooming: Freshly groomed hair and facial hair; hair cut and fresh shave; and neatly trimmed fingernails.


Interview Attire for Women

Suit: Conservative, black, navy blue, or dark grey business suit, with a single colored blouse that covers your cleavage. Avoid bright colors that may be "hard on the eye."

If you wear a skirt suit, the length should be at or below the knee in length to make sure that your thighs are covered when you are seated.

Shoes: Closed-toe , conservative shoes with a mid-to-low heels are best. Make sure your heels are low enough that you can walk comfortably. Avoid open toes, straps, and stiletto heels.

Sheer or skin toned hosiery is most professional with a suit, especially if you are wearing a skirt.

Jewelry: Wear minimal jewelry such as one ring on each hand (no more than one), a conservative watch, and earrings. Remove piercings other than earrings.

Grooming: Wear a neat, well-groomed, professional hairstyle.


Avoid Distractions.

People have different levels of tolerance for certain things. Be aware of the things that could potentially distract or offend an interviewer.

You want to focus on your qualifications and ability to do the job, so avoid losing their concentration with...

• Unclean hands or fingernails
  
• strong perfume or cologne
  
• Body odor or bad breath
  
• Extra long fingernails
  
• Flashy clothing or accessories
  
• Bright colors
  
• Tattoos - Cover them.
  
• tight clothing
  
• too much makeup
  
• false eyelashes
  
• bright nail polish
  
• Smoke - Avoid smoking before the interview. The smell may linger on your hair, clothes, or hands.

I hope this information helps you understand what to expect from the interviewer(s) as well as how to dress for success.

Good luck in your job search.

Sincerely,
Victoria E.