What is dressing for success?
Sources say that 55% of another person’s perception of you is based on their first impression. Hiring decisions can be made by the impression you initially make. No matter what the position - always ensure that you dressed to impress!
Steven is a Retail Store Operations Manager who was relocating to Arizona. I assisted Steven with his professional profile and job searching strategies last year. While flying into Arizona to complete the interview process with a major retailer, one of Steve’s questions was “Do I have to wear a suit?” The answer was and is, in my opinion, always….100% of the time. Steve was raising the issue, “But, dude, the forecast is 108 degrees that day…”
Suck it up! You never get a second chance to make a first impression.
Steven wore the suit and ultimately was given permission, during the interview, to take his jacket off. He was also told that it was the type of culture where they were allowed to wear polo’s and khakis. However, they were extremely impressed that he made the effort to make a great impression. I am confident that his impression was one of the main reasons that lead to an offer later on.
Don’t have the money to buy a fresh, new suit, sport jacket, shirt or blouse ?
Borrow one. Ask relatives. Seek out resources to get clothes for cheap.
Do whatever it takes to make the best impression possible.
99% of the time, if you plan for this ahead (as opposed to at the last minute), you can find a way to make it happen. Wear the same suit or outfit at each interview (but change up the shirt). Most companies make the decision to hire based on how they felt about you initially. Don’t make the mistake of being lackadaisical when it comes to your interview appearance. While dressing to impress may not be the sole reason why you get the job, it can have a major negative impact on decisions, if you don’t make this a priority.
On another note, consider this advice as a way to boost your confidence, as well. Try dressing to impress to go out to dinner, to go shopping, to visit friends and, more importantly, during your phone interview (where you could get away with wearing something less than your best). You will find that you have an elevated boost of confidence and poise by dressing your best during these times.
Any time you have an opportunity to meet with or cross paths with a potential employer or hiring manager, be sure to be at your best!
For further advice in this area or to discuss our services, please take the opportunity to schedule a free consultation here.
For more information, please visit us at Redline Resume.