You’ve landed an interview for your dream job and while you might need to do the all important company research and write some questions down you must also make one vital decision: What to wear!

The traditional advice was to keep it neutral and go for mutual tones like navy or black , but as we've moved into 'smart casual' office attire and less formality, there are very few hard and fast rules. Ideally you should always wear something that fits you well, that you’re comfortable in, and that reflects your natural style and personality.

Obviously you need to carefully consider this - in that  the outfit you loved for the recent festival you attended might not be quite the right look for your job interview. So howdo you present yourself professionally while keeping true to who you are? Here are 5 top tips to dress for success:

1. Keep it Personal: Your entire job search should be about you—knowing who you are, what you have to offer, and how you want to be seen by others. Planning your interview outfit is an extension of this process. Think about who you are and how you want to be seen at this new company. Bright colours can be added in by a scarf or tie, a piece of jewelry, or even shoes so its more subtle if you feel worried about going too bright. 

2. Consider the Company: It’s important that you present your true self in an nterview, but you should also think carefully about the needs and preferences of the employer. Try to find common ground: What kind of image works for you personally, but would also make the interviewer realise that you may be a fit within the company? Keep in mind that if your style doesn’t mesh with the style of the organisation, the job may not be a good fit for you.

3. Plan a Dress Rehearsal: Don’t wait until the morning of your interview to make sure your clothes fit and match. Walk about in the shoes if they are fairly new - walking down a corridor next to your future boss, staggering with blisters is not a good look and if you're uncomfortable, it will effect how you come across. 

4. Consider the effects of video. If you’re preparing for a Skype interview or any other type of video interview, which is increasingly common, realise that certain patterns and colors will create a better video presentation. Some colours will be too bright and take over - do a trial run by getting a friend to skype you. It gives you a chance to test out your outfit and any potential technical issues.

5. Don’t overcomplicate! Finally don’t spend too much time focused on your clothing, or worrying over details. As your most important task is prepping for the actual interview content itself. Try to go with your instinct of what's clean, comfortable and reflects you.

Whilst some of our team are real fashion gurus, the majority of us go for the smart causal style ;-) So if you want some advice (possibly fashion!) on getting that interview for your dream job in place, give us a call today to register your C.V. 01442 600 100 or register here