The Great Debate: Pants or Skirt For Your Job Interview?

• Posted on May 10, 2012
• in Fashion, Job Seekers
• by jobLINK

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The age-old debate continues. On that fateful day, when you walk confidently into the job interview of what could very well be your next place of employment, will you be wearing power pants or a conservative skirt suit?

 

It depends. Based on the type of job you’re interviewing for and the industry it’s in, your choice can go either way. For male dominated, corporate, legal, financial or government institutions a skirt is your optimal choice. It conveys a conservative, traditional, non-threatening image and respects that classic tradition that women wear skirts and men wear pants. Yes, I know we’re in the 21st century, but chances are the person interviewing you is not a member of generation X or Y.

Always err on the side of caution. The best advice I ever got was, “If you get noticed for your outfit, you wore the wrong thing. Don’t make any bold fashion statements.” And believe it or not, wearing pants to a job interview in some industries is considered bold. Dress the part if you want the job.

For more casual industries such as advertising, technology, retail and the like, take your cues from the current staff but take it up a few notches. You don’t want to appear out of place, you do want to look your best based on the organization’s culture.

Keep these in mind as you’re getting dressed: be professional, look neat – hair included, matching accessories – matching or complimentary purse and shoes (closed-toe), modest jewelry and makeup, clean nails, and easy on the perfume.

When you land the job you can wear (almost) anything you want but until then, be good.

 

 

 

 

Tags: clothing, fashion, job interview, what to wear, Women