First impressions matter
- posted: 26 June 2007
- scrolllifestyle@byui.edu
A person rarely gets a second chance to make a first impression. In order to make a great first impression, here are some tips to remember: smile, have a firm handshake, create eye contact and dress in proper attire.
In job-hunting, first impressions are critical. Every effort must be made to obtain proper attire for interviews.
According to www.resumecode.com formal business attire is always preferred whether employees wear formal attire at the prospective workplace or not.
The successful job candidate is one who, in an interview, communicates with competence and professionalism, with a confident presence. A person can communicate these characteristics with the proper clothing said John Molly, in Dress for Success.
It is suggested women wear a two-piece suit in dark or neutral colors with a white or pale colored blouse.
Men are suggested to wear a three-piece suit. Preferably in dark blue or grey solid suit or one with a small pinstripe. Under jacket ware a solid shirt with a conservative tie.
Shoes should be closed toe, polished, and professional looking. Shoes should have a heel that is comfortable to walk in and not one that not too trendy.
Shoes should be polished before an interview because many traditional employers look at a candidate’s shoes to spot his/her neatness, according to the Washington Post.
Don’t ever wear sunglasses because it will eliminate eye contact with the interviewer. Try to keep cologne to a minimum; cologne or perfume should not be strong enough to bother the interviewer.
Women can enhance their appearance with simple accessories. Fewer pieces of jewelry give a better look of professionalism. Keep accessories to earrings, a bracelet and not more than one ring on each hand, said Molly.
Men are advised not to go into an interview with earrings or tattoos showing. The only accessories worn should be a watch and a tie tack.
“The idea is to get people to look at you, not at what you’re wearing,” said John Metzger, president of
Metzger Associates. 
