Dressing professionally is a necessary skill when applying for interviews or jobs and is a great way to make a memorable first impression. Being well dressed can really help set you ahead of other applicants applying to the same position. We will discuss professional attire for males, females, and general tips below.
As a general guide, males should wear black, grey, or blue business slacks with a button-up long sleeve shirt. If you are financially able, wear a blazer on top of the button-up shirt, that is the same color as your slacks. Additionally, wear socks that are a solid, dark color (black, grey, etc.), and shoes that are a similar color to your business slacks. As a good rule of thumb, always take the clothes you plan to wear out of the closet before your interview and take some time to iron your shirt or get your suit dry cleaned before the interview (dry cleaners might take a full week to clean your clothes).
Females should wear black, grey, or blue business slacks or a business skirt. If wearing a business skirt, wear pantyhose underneath. Wear a business professional top, either a button-up long sleeve or something similar. If you are financially able to, add a blazer on top that matches your business slacks or skirt. Furthermore, if you are wearing business slacks, wear socks that are a solid, dark color (black, grey, etc.). Choose shoes that are a similar color to your business slacks/skirt and avoid wearing tall high heels (keep heels to 1 inch or flats). As a good rule of thumb, always take your outfit out of the closet and take some time to iron everything at least one day before or take them to the dry cleaners to be professionally cleaned and pressed (dry cleaners might take a full week to clean your clothes).
Now, if you do not already own professional attire, it may be difficult to think about buying something extra as a student or graduate entering the workforce. Yes, professional attire can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. If you are trying to look professional on a budget, we recommend stores like Ross, Marshalls, or 2nd hand stores. You can also borrow clothing from a relative or friend, or from the Academic Success and Career Center (ASCC) Cougar Closet.
Finally, before you leave your house or apartment, take a good look at yourself. Do you need to use a lint roller? Is your hair brushed and styled? Did you brush your teeth? Are your shoes visibly dirty?
If you follow these tips, you will look professional and prepared when you head to your next job fair or interview! If you need any other tips on professional attire, please reach out to the Voiland College Internships & Career Services Office, vcea.internships@wsu.edu, or join us for drop-in express career coaching on zoom, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. We would be happy to assist you. And remember, it is almost always better to come overdressed than underdressed!