by Lisa Raymond

Created on: February 09, 2009

An interview is basically a platform to sell yourself for the job. Many people talk about first appearances, but very few follow protocol. Almost everyone wants to be noticed! But there is a way of carrying it off so that you come out winning, not losing.

These suggestions cover the detailed part of you that employers are looking for. Taking care of you, and how you look, will reflect on the type of employee you'll be.

Do clean up prior to the interview: Take a shower, brush your teeth, etc. General basic hygiene can stop an interview before it starts.

Do wear clean, pressed clothes. Remember you are selling you! Spotted, dirty, or wrinkled clothes isn't putting your best foot forward. If you notice wrinkles right before you leave, try squirting a little fabric softener mixed with water on the piece of clothing.

Choose something classic for the interview, earthy warm colors work best and are less distracting. If you have a loud personality, tone it down by wearing a dark suit coat with a "pop" of color instead of tons of loud clothing.

If your interview attire is something you would wear out to a club (overly exposed arms or chest area, tight slacks) you may want to rethink your choice. If you're low on funds there are non-profits that donate clothes in various states.

Do make sure your shoes are appropriate. Make easy fixes, remove any mud/salt smudges or polish if possible. Heels should be kept to a maximum of 1 1/2 inches so that your walking is not a big distraction for you or the interviewer.

Do make sure your hair is neat. Because styles now-a-days vary, wear a style that complements you, yet isn't too crazy for the job you're applying for.

Be sure that your hands and nails are neat and clean. It's a detail that most interviewees forget, but interviewers look for.

Pick out, and try on your clothing the night before. There is nothing worse than having a tight pair of pants, an itchy shirt, or something with a stain on it during the interview. ALWAYS do a mirror check.

Don't wear perfumes, cologne, or smoke right before the interview. Not only may your interviewer not like the scent, they could be allergic to it.

Don't over do it on the jewelry! We all have personal tastes, but a lawyer may have a difficult time if he/she goes to an interview with a nose ring, eye ring and cheek piercings. Remember to be business appropriate. Big clunky jewelery can be distracting and too much can be distasteful. Less is more.

Tattoos are a fashion statement, that says a lot about you. If you are a man with tats up and down your arms, a nice shirt and suit coat would be appropriate. For a woman, you may choose to cover your tats with a nice blouse, turtleneck (mock) and coat until you learn the office policies for displaying skin art. Every office is different, so be sure to ask proper protocol.

Remember to dress for the position that you are applying!

Good Luck!

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