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.

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