It isn’t always right to judge a book by its cover but at a job interview with a potential employer, first impressions are everything. What you wear and how you look will affect your interview and your chances of getting the job.

"Are you unsure of what to wear for a job interview? Well, you’d best put some thought into it as how you dress will reflect a lot on you."

It is important to project a positive image by dressing your professional best and looking neat and well-groomed. Think about it – what employer would want to hire a scruffy-looking person who couldn’t be bothered about his or her appearance? Imagine what the customers or clients would think of such an employee.

Your appearance is something you can take care of and seriously, it won’t hurt you to put in the extra effort. Besides, well-dressed and well-groomed individuals tend to be associated with achievement and success and are usually given more opportunities to prove themselves.

Your appearance can be a professional tool in a job interview. Even if you are aware that the interview will be at a company which allows its employees to dress casually on the job, e.g. a sports brand or an ad agency, it’s still important for you to dress up for the interview unless you are specifically told otherwise.

If you are in doubt about how to dress for an interview, it is best to be more conservative. However, if you’re applying to work with a fashion brand, being too conservative isn’t good either.

If you are still unsure about how to dress for your interview, it’s time to do some research. Pay a visit to the company and keep your eyes peeled for what the employees wear. It’s always good though to dress a little better than you would if you were an employee.

While some may advise you to call the employer if you are still not sure how to dress for the interview, that may not be a very good idea. Think about it – if you can’t make a simple decision on your attire, then what about work matters? You could very well leave a negative impression way before the interview.

And one very important thing to remember when you’re figuring out your attire, especially if you’re applying for a job with a fashion or sports brand, etc. – don’t wear or use a competitor’s brand.

Still need some convincing? Then read on to get a rough idea of what you should prepare.

The suit

• A suit is a good start but wear something in neutral tones.
• Don’t go for anything too bright or loud.
• Solid colours like navy or dark grey are very safe as well.
• Gals, make sure your skirts are no shorter than two inches from the knee.

The shirt

• Shirts should be long-sleeved in white or pale/pastel shades coordinated with your suit.
• Guys, tuck those shirts in and don’t roll up the sleeves.
• Gals, no sleeveless shirts.
• A polo shirt does not count as a shirt.
• Iron your shirt so that it looks crisp, neat and crease-free.

Ties

• Use a little conservative. Solids, small polka dots, diagonal straipes, small repeating shapes, subtle plaids and paisleys are acceptable.
• Keep the crazy designs and cartoon characters at home.

Belts (for the guys)

• Belts should match your shoes.
• Belts with smaller buckles with square lines look more professional.

Jewellery

• Little or none.
• Gals, if you need to have accessories, stick to studs for earrings and a very simple ring. Don’t use anything that will jingle or clang when you move about.
• Tattoos should be covered up and body jewellery should be taken off, especially those that emphasise a very big hole in your earlobes.
• No thick chains.

Shoes

• For guys, conservative leather shoes in black or burgundy with dark socks.
• For gals, closed-toe shoes or pumps in dark colours. No kitten heels, stilettos or platforms. Panty-hose should be of a colour that’s nearest to your skin colour and bring an extra in case you get a run.
• Make sure your shoes are clean and polished.
• No sandals, slippers, or moccasins.

Hair

• Keep it neat and professional.
• If your hair is long, tie it up and make sure you use hair spray, paste or gel to keep it in place.
• Don’t play with your hair during the interview.

Nails

• Make sure your nails are neatly trimmed or manicured.
• Nails should be clean – don’t forget to clean under them. Having dirt under your nails is off-putting

Make-up (for the gals)

• Keep it simple and light.
• Use neutral colours.
• If you’re not into make-up, try to at least use a face powder and wear lip gloss.

Perfumes, cologne and deodorant

• Try to use a deodorant.
• Perfumes/colognes/aftershaves should not be too strong, nothing that will sting the nose.

Bags

• Use a portfolio or briefcase.
• Gals, ditch the big tote and bright colours. Go for a small or medium-sized bag in a colour that complements your outfit.

Others

• Leave the MP3 players and iPods at home. The last thing you need is to be tapped on the shoulder by your interviewed because you’re plugged in and can’t hear your name being called.
• Turn your cell phone off and keep it in your bag – some silent modes actually have a loud vibration feature.
• No flimsy plastic folders or plastic ball pens please.