by Conny Manero

Created on: October 01, 2009

Dressing properly for an interview is really not that complicated. All it takes is a little common sense. When in doubt, compare yourself with others and ask yourself 'Do I look as professional as they do?'

When choosing an outfit, a candidate cannot go wrong with a business suit. A black or navy blue skirt and jacked combined with a white shirt or blouse looks utterly classy and businesslike. Whether you are applying for a position of a receptionist or a legal assistant, a suit will tell the interview that you are a professional.

Pay attention to the length of your skirt though. Miniskirts may look hot in a club, but have no place in a business environment. The same goes for necklines, you don't want to unbutton too many buttons.

Your hair is the next important thing. Whatever the style, make sure your hair is clean. If your interview is on a windy day, it might be a good idea to secure long hair in a bun or ponytail. You may like a just-out-of-bed look, but unkempt hair is unprofessional.

A hint of make-up that improves your features is permitted, but be careful not to use too much. Give preference to earthy tones, rather than bright blues or greens. The same for lipsticks, avoid anything too bright red.

Keep the same in mind for nails. Wearing nail polish is fine, but avoid loud colors. Nails should be short and filed smooth.

Perfume should be avoided. A lot of people are hyper-sensitive to strong scents and you don't want to run the risk of ticking off your interviewer's nose. Having showered before your interview should be enough to ensure freshness.

Wear clean, polished shoes with your outfit that show no signs of age. Scuffed up shoes are unacceptable with a business suit. Match your handbag to your shoes and chose carefully. You don't want to carry a bag fit to hold everything but the kitchen sink; but neither do you want to show up with a bag barely big enough to hold a wallet.

Jewelry should be kept to a minimum. A wristwatch and one ring on each hand is acceptable. A short string of pears in the neckline can enhance an outfit, but no more than that. No swinging neck chains, no rattling bracelets, no flashy earrings.

Now when you look in the mirror you should see a head to toe polished individual. The only thing left to wear now ... is a smile.

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