Suit Up!

Coming along to assessment day with ProGrad, (or even just out to a job interview)? I’m sure you’ve done all your preparation- your speech is good and you feel pretty confident, but have you given a thought to the most basic of statements- your wardrobe choice?

It might seem like a given, but turning up to a prospective employer, it is imperative that you dress to impress. What you wear (or don’t wear) can make a huge statement about you as an employee.

Nobody likes to think that people judge based on appearance, but a harsh truth about us is that we tend to make decisions about people within 30 seconds of an introduction. That means the effort you put into your appearance for an interview can be an important indicator about your level of professionalism, attitude and even your attention to detail.

From an assessment perspective, we have clients on the assessment day and so asking you to come in full business attire is for your benefit more than anything else. Having seen your resume and getting to know you in a telephone interview, we understand that you are intelligent, well spoken and capable graduates but to someone who may already have a preconception about graduates- you want to show that you are a blank canvas, someone ready to join their organisations corporate culture.

So what is business attire?

Guys:

This means a dark suit, light shirt and plain tie. Tame that unruly hair and go for a clean shave. Take off your sunglasses and either leave them in the car or in your bag. To go that extra mile, ensure that your shoes are also shined.

Girls:

A dark suit; pants or skirt is fine but with a skirt go for some stockings. Choose a light shirt and closed toe shoes. It is preferable to tie your hair back, something simple so it is off your face. Avoid big or noticeable accessories; you don’t want to pigeonhole yourself with a “look”.

Obviously you don’t need to buy the most expensive suit on the rack, but something neat and tidy to show you have prepared and that you are dressed for success not fashion!

-Please note, we only say a dark suit to avoid anyone showing up in their yellow suit from the year 10 formal- if you have a grey suit that is fine too. Also a plain tie just means something that doesn’t resemble what your dad would be wearing on Christmas day- no cartoons or outrageous patterns.

If you have facial piercings and are able to take them out for the day, it’s probably best that you do- again it’s the whole blank canvas thing, not that piercings mean you’re wild.

In case you are feeling unsure or uncomfortable in your corporate best, it is always better to be overdressed than underdressed for an interview; it shows you are taking the opportunity seriously and that you respect the employer. It’s not about being attractive but being well presented, so if you are just ask your graduate manager and we would be more than happy to help you make the call.