How to Be Fully 'Suited and Booted' for a Job Interview

John Doe • August 2, 2015

First impressions are very important for a corporate job interview. It is always best to be overdressed than underdressed, as you don't want to be remembered for the wrong reasons. I am always explaining to candidates that they need to be 'fully suited and booted' for an interview, so I thought I would give a detailed explanation of what 'suited and booted, business attire or corporately presented' means.

For men:

  • A matching suit blazer and pants – I think black is always a safe option

  • A clean and ironed shirt – no bright colours or patterns

  • A tie – again nothing too busy or with patterns, tied properly

  • Black socks and black polished shoes

  • Ensure that your hair is neat and tidy

  • Remove any excess or heavy jewellery

For women:

  • A matching suit blazer and pants (or skirt), or a corporate dress

  • Ensure your skirt or dress sits on your knee

  • If you wear the suit pants or skirt, a clean and ironed shirt or blouse, nothing too revealing or low cut

  • Stockings (no holes or ladders) and a pair of polished, closed toe black heels

  • Ensure your hair is neat and tidy, tied back and out of your face

  • Corporate make up – no heavy eye liner or coloured eye shadow

  • A neutral nail colour (or no nail varnish to be safe)

  • No heavy or excess jewellery – remove all jewellery, including multiple ear piercings to be safe

Remember this is a job interview, not the runway!

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