Tips to Make a Professional Appearance at an Interview

Getting second chance to make first impression in interview is impossible. Appearing smart on interview day may not get you the job, but it will certainly not lose you the job. Moreover, dressing well will also lead to greater self-confidence which is very important in an interview.

Given below are few tips on how men should dress for interviews from head to toe:

•  Brush your teeth and use mouthwash.
•  Neatly comb your hair. To make your hair stay in place, either make use of some sort of hair spray or apply gel. If your hair is out of place, it could be a distraction in interviews. So don’t give room for that.
•  Put on deodorant, do not wear cologne.
•  Put on glasses if you have them on the day of interview. This is particularly suitable for young men. Specs can add age and maturity as well as a general sense of intelligence.
•  You should shave few hours before the interview as it will keep your shave fresh and will also give time to stop any bleeding if you cut yourself. In case you have facial hair, make sure it is very neatly trimmed. Fingernails should also be trimmed neatly.
•  Wear a suit, preferably in dark gray, navy or black with a matching shirt (crisp white or light blue). Best option would be to put on a plain navy suit or navy suit with subtle pinstripes. White shirt, preferably with a spread collar, not button down would be a perfect choice.
•  For Necktie, go for diagonal stripes. Do not wear a bright colored tie. Tie the tie in a half Windsor knot and tie it in such a way that the bottom tip is at the top of your belt buckle.
•  Your belt should be sleek and simple with no huge or fancy belt buckles. Men generally should avoid wearing bracelets or earrings into interviews. Though it may be OK to wear to work once you land the job, the interview is not the place to show off your personal style.
•  Wear burgundy or brown color dress shoes that are clean and polished. The sole must be leather and the heel should be neat, not well worn. Socks should be plain navy. Wear a plain white undershirt.
•  Wear a dress watch as it adds a feel of sophistication. Avoid wearing a sports watch.
•  Your interview accessories must be professional. Carry a briefcase or nice leather- or vinyl-bound portfolio to take resume, references or other relevant documents. Leave ragged manila folders or college logo folders at home.
•  Always reach 20 minutes early. Be very polite to everyone you see or speak to. Shake your interviewer's hand confidently. Make strong eye contact with interviewer and don't be scared to take time to think before answering a question.

Again, your outfit for interviews most probably won't guarantee you the job, but if you look smart, your interviewer will take notice.