There is an unwritten social norm that states when job candidates show up for an interview, they should always look their best. Well-groomed and properly dressed candidates communicate to the interviewer that they understand one of the core elements of professionalism, which can help put the interviewer at ease.
In our survey, 40 percent of HR professionals outlined inappropriate attire as the most common mistake they see during job interviews – the number one response. An additional 13 percent noted poor presentation of self, while another 11 percent reported slovenly appearance as an interview deal-breaker.
Since respondents also noted that appearance accounts for up to 25 percent of being perceived as a professional, even if all of a candidate’s verbal responses are perfect, they may fall on deaf ears if clothes and accessories are a constant distraction.
Clothes, accessories, and even footwear need not be expensive, however they should be carefully chosen in order to enhance your professional presence and complement your capabilities. Select interview attire as if your career depends on it…because most often it does.
