Recruiting Tip: Interview Style

Throughout the years of recruiting, I’ve seen the “style” become more and more casual.  When interviewing for a job you have make sure you “look” the part of the job you are applying for.

It should go without saying that the interview is the first and only chance you’ll get to make a good impression. You may have all the qualifications in the world, but turn up looking scruffy and you’ll be headed for the exit instead of your new manager’s office. 

Psychologists estimate that just 7% of the impression you make at interview will be based on what you say. The rest will depend on how you said it and whether you looked like a convincing candidate. Dress for the job you aspire to and people will picture you in the role.

Keep it simple

In the service industry, it’s likely you’ll be wearing some sort of uniform, so it stands to reason that, even if you’re not expected to turn up to the interview in a suit, you should still dress smartly and professionally in something appropriate for the role.

But use your head: even if you’re going for a job as a chef, you’re still going to look a bit daft turning up in your whites — at least for the non-cooking stage.

Serious style

When choosing the colour of your outfit, aim for something clean and classic.

Go for one or two colours you would generally find in a uniform, e.g. black, navy or grey for your trousers or skirt with a white shirt or blouse. Avoid loud colours like orange or purple: you don’t want to sear your interviewer’s retinas with your violently-clashing colour scheme.

The fashion advice team at John Lewis Oxford Street says it’s wise to take a low key approach to looking ‘individual’ at work.

Their style guide for jobseekers advises candidates simply to add one interesting accessory (a brooch for women, for example, or a bright tie for men) to well-tailored clothes if they want to stand out from the crowd.

But remember:

Guys: while you might be remembered for wearing a crazy, unforgettable tie, it’s likely to be for the wrong reason. If you’re wearing a tie, then take it back to basics with one colour. Impress, don’t distress!

Girls: don’t go overboard by wearing your favourite party jewellery. Remember, in any job, you will be asked to keep your jewellery understated and to a minimum, so try to mimic this at interview.

Some other things to avoid:

  • Distinctive branding
  • Emblems and logos
  • Crazy patterns and bold stripes
  • Checks and tartans and florals
  • Cartoon imagery and jokey socks

And here are some more top tips from the image experts:

For the girls…

It pays to make-up: women who wear subtle makeup earn 23% more than women who go without, according to the Hamermesh-Biddle project. Makeup emphasizes eyes and mouth (the primary means of communication), but beware to avoid the rock chick look.

Don’t reveal flesh: according to the Azziz Corporation, 88% of people feel that it’s unacceptable to display a bare midriff in the workplace, making it less acceptable than visible tattoos (77%), body piercings (69%) and low-cut tops (64%).

Suits you: women have so many choices that they often shy away from the more formal suit. Suits can make a statement while remaining feminine.

For the guys…

Beard blunders: facial hair is not taboo anymore. One in three bosses now views stubble as acceptable in business, says Azziz. But concealing lips and mouth is still a barrier to communication. If you’re going for beard or stubble, you’ll need to spend more, not less, time on grooming.

Don’t be a schoolboy: badly-fitting clothes generally look like hand-me-downs.

And all the rest: don’t think you can get away with a stain on your tie, lunch in your teeth or smelling of cigarettes.

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I am writing to express my sincere gratitude to Duke Witte for his assistance in finding me a new job in the hospitality industry. I was disgruntled with my previous job, and I was feeling very discouraged about my prospects. I had been working in the restaurant industry for many years, and I had a lot of experience and skills, but I was having a hard time finding a better opportunity.

I was contacted via LinkedIn by Duke, and thank goodness I was.  Mr. Witte was incredibly helpful and supportive throughout the entire process. He took the time to understand my skills and experience, and worked tirelessly to find me a job that was a good fit.

Duke was also very honest and upfront with me about the job market. He didn't sugarcoat things, but also didn't give up on me. He kept me motivated and encouraged, and never gave up on finding me a job that I would love.

I am so grateful to Duke Witte and his team for their help. I am now happily employed, and I am so happy that I was able to find a job that I love. I would highly recommend him to anyone who is looking for a job in the restaurant industry. He is a true professional, and is dedicated to helping his clients find the perfect job!

Thank you again for everything!

Nick Grubbs

Working with Chris Bovio made job searching so much easier! 

Not only was he available and involved in my search, but also knowledgeable regarding the position. Chris used his industry experience and recruiting network to find the best position for me and my skill set. My only regret is that my new job is so perfect for me that I won’t need to use Chris or Patrice & Associates later.

Thanks,

Nick Guarino

Michael Greig was absolutely fantastic in every way! 

He gave me options and suggestions & eventually found a great for me. Communication was easy and he went above & beyond. Also, he seems like an all around good dude. Thanks again Michael. Solid work out there. You’re hired :)

Nic Callahan

Bryan Curtis was fantastic to work with!

Bryan was very on top of things throughout my recruiting process to the engineering firm I accepted my position with.  I responded to his LinkedIn posting and heard back from him within 24 hours. He continually spoke with me throughout the process checking in regularly and answering all my questions. Bryan was instrumental in helping me find a great job.

Thanks!

Austin

Frank Rondeau was a really big help! 

When it came to helping me find my new job, he knocked it out of the park!  He was very honest and thorough throughout the entire process. We had multiple conversations along the way and he always checked in after interviews. Frank was amazing to work with, and I'm super excited to start my new journey thanks to him.       

Many Thanks,

Chyanne

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