By Jaymie Pompeo
Contributor, Career Services
Whether it’s dressing for an interview, a networking event, or even the first day on the job – deciding on the right outfit can cause anxiety. Should you opt for the standard conservative business suit or is the environment a bit more relaxed where business casual may be more appropriate? Well, it depends.
We are all aware that we need to make that first impression count, and yet there is a fine line of what the proper dress code may be for a particular industry, organization, or networking opportunity. With so many factors to consider, how can one be sure in making the best decision? My advice – investigate the situation thoroughly.
Know the industry standards: The nature of professional dress is tied to your industry. For example, someone interviewing for a mechanic position wouldn’t need a formal suit for an interview as it may be considered too formal. A business casual approach with pressed slacks and a button down shirt may be more appropriate in this setting. While it may be suitable for a marketing executive to add bold colors and creative designs to their suit ensemble, a government worker may use a conservative approach by wearing a navy colored power suit.
Consider the setting. Even though professional interactions point our mindset towards dressing up for the occasion, there are times where common sense leads us to really think about the type of setting we are dealing with. Perhaps you’ve secured an informational interview with an industry professional at local coffee shop. Maybe there is a happy hour networking mixer at a local pub after an industry conference. Even though these may be considered less formal settings, you still want to maintain a professional image. These are great opportunities to plan a versatile outfit that can be easily adjusted to the occasion. You can keep a blazer on standby to dress up your look as easily as it can be taken off for less formal affairs.
Be consistent in how you radiate professionalism. Did you emphasize how detail-oriented you are in your resume? Make sure your appearance carries this message through your pressed clothes, clean fingernails, and shined shoes. Perhaps you mentioned during a phone interview with a start-up company that your biggest strength is the ability to assess client needs. Demonstrate this further by understanding the company culture ahead of time to ensure your appearance is well-balanced for the occasion – not too conservative or too casual.
The way you dress for any professional opportunity can make a strong statement about how you see yourself, which in turn affects how others view you. Remember to do your part and research your opportunity. You’ll look good, feel confident, establish credibility, and deliver your personal branding message in any setting.
[Related: Tips to Dress the Part for the Interview]
About the Author: Jaymie completed her Bachelors in Business Administration with Florida Atlantic University. Her career journey began in human resources where she handled several aspects of the employee experience such as new hire orientations, team buildings, employee relations, and exit interviews. Motivated in helping others succeed, she transitioned into higher education with American Public University System (APUS) in 2010. The experience she gained in academic advising helped shape her passion towards empowering students and alumni with their career journey, particularly those transitioning from military to civilian work. For this reason and many more, she is excited to be a Career Coach supporting interests with Homeland Security, Emergency and Disaster Management, Criminal Justice, and Security Management.
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