Attending a job interview is a chance for individuals to consider a company as part of their immediate professional future. It is also an opportunity for the company to judge each person interviewing for a position. A positive first impression is imperative to a job interview, especially a person’s physical appearance.

“Even if you’re going into a more casual atmosphere it doesn’t matter,” said Katie Flint, assistant director of marketing, special events and communication at the Career Center. “You want to make the best impression possible.”

Hair

Hair should be done nicely, trimmed and neat. Hair should be a natural color and out of the face. Be careful when doing a ponytail, said Flint. It must be a styled ponytail, not messy. It is okay to have a subtle hair accessory if it is helping to hold hair back and matches the outfit, said Flint. It is important to shave facial hair or make sure it is neatly trimmed. Pull hair out of the eyes, said Sweet. Try to look presentable. When wearing a nametag pull hair away from it.

Clothes

Anyone interviewing for a job should dress business professional. For men and women, that means suits, said Flint. She specified that for women it is acceptable to wear a pant or skirt suit. Men should pair a suit with a collared dress shirt and tie.

“It’s worth investing in at least one good suit you can wear to multiple interviews,” said Flint. “I recommend a white or a very light colored shirt to go underneath the suit,” said Frances Sears, assistant director of business career services.

Sears says women should not wear a tie. Make sure tops are not too low cut and skirts are just above the knee at the shortest.

“I would recommend for an interview not to be sleeveless,” said Flint. “You want to show them you know what professional attire is,” said Julia Sweet, associate director of Business Career Services.

Other accessories

Women should consider wearing nylons. It looks more professional, said Flint. People are sensitive to perfume and cologne. When in doubt, don’t wear it.

“I would probably say skip it,” said Sears. “Don’t bring a backpack. Bring a portfolio, a nice portfolio,” said Flint.

It is also a good idea to have a notepad in case it is necessary to take notes. It is okay to have a small purse that can be put over the shoulder said Flint. Do not have any tattoos showing. If wearing a coat, make sure it is clean or take it off before entering the office, said Flint.

Other tips

“Make sure your under clothes stay under your clothes,” said Flint. Have clean fingernails. Dress in a way that allows you to feel more confident.

“Make sure you’ve brushed your teeth,” said Sears.

Do not have bad breath or smoke on your breath, or anything in your teeth she added. Make sure to shower that day. Have a tissue in case you get sweaty palms.

“Always bring way more resumes than you think you need,” said Sears.

“For a job interview you want to look your best,” said Sweet.

Use common sense and good judgment. An interview is an opportunity to make a great first impression. Flint said it is important to remember “The job’s not yours yet.”

Jewelry

Men should have no jewelry at a job interview unless they own a nice watch.

“I would recommend only one earring per ear,” said Sears, referring to women.

“You don’t want huge, dangly earrings,” said Flint. “You don’t want big old bling, you want something small and conservative.”

A job interview is not the time to wow people with fashion, but impress with a mature personality.

Makeup

Women should not wear “going out” makeup to interviews. Makeup should be subtle and natural looking. The colors should be neutral and complimenting to the face and outfit. Same with nail polish, no neon colors or long fake nails, it looks gaudy, said Flint.

Colors

Black and other dark colored suits typically leave a good impression, said Sweet. However, she added if a person is interviewing for a job in marketing, advertising or any other occupation that values creativity and individualism, it may be wise to throw bright colors into the mix.

Shoes

It is important to remember little things, like wearing black socks and polished shoes without scuffs, said Flint. She also suggested wearing shoes with a closed toe for women. Women should wear pumps or heels at a reasonable height. Stilettos and other tall heels can be left at home.

“Don’t wear white socks with a black suit,” said Flint. “It looks horrible.”