DRESS FOR SUCCESSAppropriate Interview Attire

How to Impress

Strategies for Getting the Job Master the Basics Business Dress Business Casual Casual

Strategies for Getting the Job You Want

Research your potential employer’s place of business (visit their website or offices)

Educate yourself on the company’s mission and the part they play in the industry

Determine how you would fit in And how you could stand out

Master the Basics Dress conservatively to ensure that the focus is

on your qualifications, not your attire It’s OK to inquire about the dress code Dress up one or two levels, but don’t out dress

the boss/interviewer Clothes are to be clean and pressed and shoes

shined No jewelry, other than a watch Know how to tie a tie properly

Don’t Do

Save your fashion individuality for after you get the job.

Business Dress

Business Dress Explained

Solid navy or dark gray single-breasted suit

White or light blue long-sleeved dress shirt with simple collar

Conservative tie, with classic stripes or small pattern - avoid bright colors and wild designs

Clean & shined leather shoes in a classic business style (Black lace-up is a good choice)

Fit is Crucial

Good Fit Explained Jacket

Follows contour of body, with no more than a 2-inch gap when pulled away from the chest

Jacket length should align with where fingers meet your palm when arms are at your sides

Sleeve length ends at break in the wrist Pants

Back hem should end at top of the shoe heel One fold (or break) in front near the ankle

Business Casual

Business Casual Explained

Appropriate for casual or artsy work environments

Single-breasted sport coat/blazer with a solid or subtle pattern in navy or earth tones

Medium to dark dress slacks

Long-sleeved button-down shirt with an open collar (no tie)

Casual leather shoes (no sneakers or sandals)

Casual

Casual Explained

Rarely appropriate except for very casual work environments

Khakis clean and pressed with a crease

Long-sleeved button-down with subtle pattern or a solid, 2 or 3 button polo shirt

Casual leather shoes (no sneakers or sandals)

Collarless shirts and jeans or shorts are not acceptable

Parting Tips

Concentrate on your goal of getting the job. You are not trying to impress anyone with your distinctiveness or flair in how you dress. That can come later -- after you get the job.

It’s better to be over-dressed than under-dressed

First impressions do matter, and often make or break your chance of getting the job

Let Us Help You Dress to Impress

David Wise, OwnerTop Shelf Menswear, 300 Bridge Street, New Cumberland, PA 17070

717.770.2080 topshelfmenswear.com