Dressing for the workplace
We recommend that your work wardrobe suits your personal style and body shape while also being comforable, clean, and appropriate for the role and company.
If you're unsure what to wear or unfamiliar with the company's dress code, try to visit them prior to starting work to see what their employees are wearing.
Every company has their own dress code, however we've recommend the following: no visible underwear, revealing midriffs, outlandish nail polish (neutral or a clear gloss is always safest), or multiple body piercings on show (one pair of earrings is preferred). Jewellery should not affect your ability to perform your work tasks, hair should be neat and tidy, and makeup also kept to a minimum (natural tones are safest).
Accessories can make and complete an outfit! Traditional fashion etiquette recommends that handbag, belt and shoes be the same colour. Talking about shoes, most importantly, they should be clean and polished.
Today, unless you are required by the company to wear a uniform or protective wear, they can not dictate whether women, or men, wear pants, skirts or dresses. It is therefore personal choice as to whether you wear pants, skirt and dresses. Whatever you choose to wear, we recommend that it is clean and ironed.
At many companies, suits - and ties - are optional, however we recommend to wear dress or tailored pants with a collared shirt. We believe it's always better to over dress rather than under dress for a first meeting or interview.
All clothes should be clean and ironed and in good condition (ie. no holes, stains, fallen hems or loose threads).
We believe it's always a good idea to try your interview outfit on the day before to make sure you're perfectly happy with it.
Make sure your mobile phone is switched off or on silent.
Don't fidget or play with your hair or nails. Sit straight, make eye contact and whatever you do, don’t yawn!
If you have a cold or cough, excuse yourself at the beginning of the interview and ask if you may have a glass of water, which may help you stop coughing.
Look interested and ask if you may be able to take notes, which will show you are interested (only take down vital points, not everything they say).
In an interview, how you communicate, particularly your word choice, tone and inflection, can have a big impact on the impression you make so consider how you come across when talking with others. Do you sound confident or a bit arrogant? Do you give the impression that you are distant, surly or too quiet? Do you speak clearly or mumble? Also, try to speak politely and confidently.
Using slang or swear words is not acceptable in an interview.
Answer questions clearly and honestly, stay focused, and try not to drag your answers out. Try to always be aware of what you're saying, who you're saying it to and the message this sends to the person you are talking to.
Body language is important in an interview so always sit straight, stand confidently and shake the hand of the person interviewing you while also looking them in the eye.
Let your personality shine through! The employer is not just looking for the right skills, they are looking for an employee who is the right fit for their company's culture.
‘I just want to say a BIG thank you to all of you. You went above and beyond trying to find me work and I am so grateful! I was really struggling to find work and your resume and interview tips really helped with my applications and interviews. Peninsula Personnel is truly the best recruitment company I have ever been with.’ One very happily employed Haylee, candidate
‘I would like to thank you for your time, persistence and help with all my temporary work and now my new job with Glenda, Alex and Elders … Also thank you for the lovely welcome to the job package. It was so very touching to have received that during the first week. Your company has always done an exceptional job at making us employees feel a part of your team.’ Marla, candidate
‘Thank you to you and your team for taking me on and having confidence in me. I really do appreciate the efforts you have gone to, not only for me but for all your temps. I’m so glad that I was given your name a year ago as someone who I could turn to. I know that Jenny Lawson has the ultimate respect for you and the success of your business.’ Caroline, candidate
‘When I knew I was going to be returning to Sydney I contacted PP and was working almost before I had unpacked my suitcases. The PP team somehow always managed to find positions that suited me perfectly, including an ideal permanent position once I had decided to settle. I have found Lisa and Leigh extremely friendly, always professional and unbelievably efficient. For example, when my situation changed recently and I required temporary assignments again, I forwarded my updated CV to Lisa… Read more
‘I will always refer Peninsula Personnel when I get the opportunity. I have to admit I have always had a fairly negative opinion of recruitment agencies from bad past experiences so it was nice to finally have a good experience with one!’ Jane, candidate
‘It has been lovely working with you, Leigh and Lorraine over the years and I am sure this will be my forever job (it will be a total surprise if it is not) so I am sure it was the last return to Peninsula, which have been many over the past 20 years. Thank you for being wonderful and inviting.’ Michele, candidate
‘Peninsula Personnel – what can I say – what a great agency to work for. Some 20 years ago I was a client of Peninsula Personnel. Now I am a one of their regular temporaries. The consultants at Peninsula are extremely professional and have a long-standing top client base. They know their employees’ strengths and by doing so they ensure they always match their client’s needs with the best possible candidate for that position. I have only praise for the girls at Peninsula. Thank you Penins… Read more
‘What an inspiration you are Lisa!! So driven, so successful, so switched on!! Well done you! Thank you doesn’t seem to cut it. But thank you so much for everything. For the first time in my life, I feel I am in such capable hands.’ Jane, candidate ’
‘Micros Fidelio Australia has employed the services of Peninsula Personnel to fill a number of complex and demanding roles within our organisation over the past five years. We have found Peninsula Personnel to be very helpful and professional. The candidates they have supplied have been of the highest calibre.’ Peter, Micros Fidelio
‘Peninsula Personnel offered me the best alternative to full time work. As a temp I was able to work for many different companies and experience a variety of workplace environments without being tied down. Placement was always local and the work interesting. With the support of a friendly and helpful team, I developed various office skills and have made many friends along the way. My experience with Peninsula Personnel has been of the highest quality and I would recommend anyone interested… Read more