It seems like everything in today’s world is becoming less formal and more casual. Norms that were considered standard are now questioned or ignored. Sometimes this has been for the good, as most men are enjoying the general relaxed rules around neckties. It has, however, caused some job seeker confusion regarding what the appearance standard for a job interview is. This has caused many job seekers to make some fatal first impression flaws and not meet the basic appearance expectations of the Hiring Manager.
This edition of “Job Search Tips” is not meant to embarrass or offend anyone. It only calls out the reality of our eroding standards for appearance and how this fact directly competes with the still higher expectation that most Hiring Managers have for an interview. The goal is for job seekers to understand what will (usually) be minimally expected of them, so that you can adjust yourself accordingly.
- Aroma/Scent: It used to be this is were we focused on perfume or cologne and to not overdo it. This, however, has increasingly become an area of concern for Hiring Managers, due to overall personal hygiene. Keep in mind that this can be a real point of issue between co-workers if they have to work in close proximity of each other. Please come to the interview freshly bathed and not smelling of your morning workout, or other aromas. I even had a Hiring Manager recently tell me about a candidate who reeked of french fries, of all things. Don’t forget about your clothing, which should be recently washed. Pay close attention to your jacket, which may not receive regular cleanings but can pick up smells, especially if you are a smoker of any kind.
- Dress: While the professional suit is now relegated mainly for professional or managerial type of positions, it is still important to have a suitable appearance for your interview. If you are unsure of the interview dress code for a company (and for some reason you can’t ask), then my recommendation is to error on dressing more formally. It is generally better to “dress up” rather than “dress down” for a situation. Even for the most entry-level type of positions, I suggest dressing beyond casual and leaving the shorts, jeans, and t-shirts at home.
- Your Style or Look: This section may be, to some a bit controversial. This paragraph is not meant to point out that everyone should conform to a certain look. This could be your hair style (head or face), piercings, tattoos, make-up, etc. Anything that you have that could perhaps distract a Hiring Manager, will potentially prevent them from focusing on you and therefore harm your candidacy.
- Accessories: I struggled to find a term for this particular category because it goes beyond the jewelry (the typical definition) that you wear. For example, your smartphone has now become an attached item to your palm to be looked at any time in any situation. However, a job interview is not a situation where you want your phone out to be looked at. I even recently had a Hiring Manager tell me about a situation where a candidate came in for their interview wearing headphones and was prepared to leave them on for the discussion! You should always be prepared to give the interviewer your undivided attention during your meeting.
A savvy job seeker will adjust and work towards meeting the expectations that the prospective employer will have for the interview. If you have any questions or doubts over what will be expected of you…then ask for clarification. In almost every situation, the recruiter or Hiring Manager will be happy to tell you what they expect. They want you to feel as comfortable as possible and not be out of place by misjudging what is expected. By clarifying, there will be no misunderstanding, and your appearance will not become an issue.
A major additional point is to understand what the expectation around your appearance post-interview will be once you are offered the position. It is important to make sure that all are aligned in this area, so that you don’t find yourself out-of-place or frustrated once you start. If a casual everyday work environment is needed, then only accept a position that will provide this comfort. Remember, the goal is not only to get the new job, but to be successful while in it!
As always, best of luck in your job search.
The following has been prepared for the general information of WNYJobs readers. It is not meant to provide advice with respect to any specific legal or policy matter and should not be acted upon without verification by the reader.
Joe Stein
WNY Human Resources Professional
Feel free to contact Joe Stein regarding questions or comments at:
Joe Stein
