Did you know that only 42% of interviewed candidates end up with a job offer? When you get the call to come and attend a job interview, it can be all too easy to think the process will be a breeze. But never underestimate the interview process.
The most important thing to do to succeed at an interview is to be prepared. You should have done your research, be prepared to answer tough questions, and lastly, think about your appearance.
It may seem a little outdated to put a lot of thought into your outfit, but first impressions are crucial. Did you know that we make assumptions about people within 60 seconds of meeting them? Even if we don't mean to, it's just intuitive; it's a way for our brain to make us feel safe.
For this reason, what we wear to an interview is incredibly important. It could even make or break our chances of getting a job offer. Follow our top tips to help you decide what to wear.
1. Do Your Research Before Your Job Interview
Ok, so you know the company inside out, the figures from the last five years, the CEO's name. You're ready for any question! But do you know the company dress code?
Knowing the office attire for the company is of utmost importance. You don't want to turn up to a tech start-up in a suit. Equally, interviewing at a bank in jeans and a t-shirt will not go down well either.
Look at the company's website, can you see pictures of the employees and how they are dressed? You can also check social media to get an idea of how you should dress.
2. Take Care of Your Grooming
Another point that men often neglect before turning up to an interview is their grooming. Get a haircut, trim your beard. If you look well-groomed, your interviewer will appreciate the efforts.
On the day of your interview, don't wear too much aftershave or any flashy jewelry. You want your personality to shine, not your bling. You don't want to put off the interviewer with overpowering aftershave.
3. Do Your Preparation in Advance
Once you have decided what to wear, ensure it is dry cleaned or washed in plenty of time for the interview.
Iron or press a shirt and make sure your outfit is looking sharp. Polish your shoes and ensure you have clean, matching socks.
Are you going to take a bag? Make sure it is something that complements your outfit and fits necessary documents.
If you have everything prepared in advance, it will put less pressure on you on the day and mean you can focus on answering all the questions and bagging that job.
4. Choose Your Outfit Carefully
Men's fashion can sometimes seem daunting. You may think there aren't that many options to choose from. But don't worry, there are lots of outfit combinations that will make you stand out from the crowd, as well as look sharp and sophisticated.
Let's take a look at some of the items you should wear for an interview:
1. A Button-Down Shirt
This is an essential in every man's wardrobe and can be worn for multiple occasions, not just an interview. A smart shirt elevates any outfit and can be dressed up or down.
If the company you are interviewing at has more of a casual dress code, you can wear your shirt without a tie and casual slacks.
More professional dress code? Wear your shirt with dress pants, a tie, and a blazer.
If there is a strict smart dress code, then a dress shirt would be the best option. Choose a color that compliments the color of your suit and tie. A checked dress shirt can be just as smart as a plain one when it comes to patterns.
Choosing the color and print of your shirt is down to you and a great way to let your personality shine through a little.
2. Trousers
Your trousers should, as a general rule, be a dark color. This will avoid any accidents occurring on the way to your interview. Imagine wearing khaki trousers and then spilling coffee on them on your journey.
Most companies won't like it if you wear jeans, it's too casual. A smart pair of trousers which have been pressed are another essential item men should have in their wardrobe.
3. Tie
To wear a tie or not? That can be a complicated one. If you are unsure, then wear one to be safe. You can always take it off if you feel overdressed. Novelty ties are a no-no.
Choose something simple that complements the color of your shirt; you can't go wrong with a royal blue shirt and dark blue tie, for example.
4. A Jacket or Blazer
If you are dressing in a bright casual style, then a blazer is a great option. A little texture in the fabric is also an excellent way to add a stylish, elegant element to your look.
A tweed blazer is an excellent option to show some personality while looking effortlessly smart.
5. Shoes
This depends on personal preference. You should never wear trainers or sandals to a job interview. That goes without saying. A smart, clean pair of brogues or loafers in black or brown are the perfect shoes to wear to an interview.
Brogues or loafers look smart enough to wear with a suit but can also be women as part of a smart-casual look.
6. Accessories
Accessories such as a belt and bag should be as simple as possible. They can be smart and compliment your outfit, but they don't need to be stand-out pieces that shout look at me. Stay modest.
You can add some finishing touches to your outfit with your socks or cufflinks if you are wearing a dress shirt, for example.
Be Confident in Your Choices
Professional clothing isn't always the easiest to get right, but with this guide, you should have more of an idea about putting a look together.
Try not to choose something because you think it's what your interviewer will like. Your choices should be based on what you feel comfortable in. Well-fitting, smart clothes will give you the confidence to go into that job interview and get the job with conviction and ease.
Want an outfit that will get you any job you want? Check out our selection of high, quality, and stylish menswear from multiple brands.