The first impression has the greatest impact on whether your interview will succeed or fail.  Statistically speaking, a person forms an opinion based upon their first impression within thirty seconds.  Thirty seconds isn't that long to try to sell your abilities to a potential employer which is why knowing how to dress for an interview is so valuable.  Follow these tips to help you when you are deciding on just the right outfit to go to an interview.

Know the Job
Before going to that scheduled interview, do a thorough research of the company.  Most companies have websites that you can skim through to learn about the company, what they are about, and what kinds of services and/or products they offer.  It is a good idea to familiarize yourself with the company before an interview so that you will be able to interact with the interviewer with advance knowledge that will gain you a few brownie points for being prepared and interested in their company.  However, another benefit of researching their website is that they usually have employee sections that discuss their dress code and office rules.  This will give you an idea of how you should dress for an interview using the company’s standards.

Pants Suits or Skirts?
It used to be the chic fashion for women to wear high-powered business pants suits.  However, research is showing that this isn’t necessarily the case anymore.  A nice business skirt with neutral toned blouses seems to be succeeding where pants suits used to.  Pants have a tendency to wrinkle easier, and may be somewhat intimidating to the interviewer, depending upon the company and job you are applying for.  Another disappearing trend is nude colored pantyhose.  Choose colored hoses that compliment your skirt suit without clashing or appearing garish.

Shoes
Shoes should always be closed toes; do not wear sandals or sexy six inch high heels.  Low heeled pumps (no more than a couple of inches depending upon your height) are the most appropriate.  Choose a pair of shoes that match your skirt or dress or even a shade darker to accentuate your attire.  

Accessories
Keep the accessories to the bare minimum.  Don’t use your everyday purse filled with all of your belongings; instead use a small, compact purse that is in good shape and matches your outfit.  Jewelry should be nominal; a delicate necklace, earring studs and perhaps a tasteful watch should be the limit to your jewelry ensemble. Do not wear flashy jewelry, sparkles, or overly large pieces to distract the interviewer from your personality and abilities.

Fingernails
A lot of women don’t stop to consider how important their hands and nails are in an interview.  Manicures and acrylic nails are not necessary for an interview; however clean and well groomed nails are essential.  Use either a clear coat or very light polish to brighten up your fingernails.  

Remember, you only have about thirty seconds to make that first impression.  You don’t want that first impression to be one of bright red, inch long nails and sparkly make-up with five inch heels.  Instead, you want to present yourself as a woman in control, a woman who knows what she wants and how to get it.     

www.ladycasual.com/wordpress/wp-login.php