As students, we’re constantly taught how to prepare for our future profession. Along with that, we’re taught how to create a resume and how to act during an interview. But, none of our professors teach us how to dress for an interview. This became very apparent to me at last week’s Career Fair.
More than 300 employers were present at the O’Connell Center to meet students and collect resumes. I spent my entire winter break perfecting my resume. I also spent a few days before the fair creating my portfolio. The only thing I had left to do the night before was pick out the perfect outfit. I decided to go with a gray dress, black tights and heels. I felt very professional the next day in my career fair attire along with my new portfolio.
I was shocked, however, when I arrived to the fair and saw that several girls were wearing teeny, tiny dresses. These girls looked like they were going to Techno Tuesday at 101 rather than to meet with potential employers.
While a career fair is not an official job interview, it should still be treated as so. Like the old adage says, “Dress for the job you want, not the job you have.”
With that being said, I will give you a few options to wear instead of the standard “tube” that many girls have been frequenting while out at the local clubs.
- A pair of slacks and a fitted shirt.
- A knee-length dress. This J.Crew dress would look perfect with a fitted blazer.
- The tried-and-true suit. Whether it’s a skirt suit or a pants suit, your mom was right when she said you should invest in a well-fitted suit.
These outfits don’t have to be boring. Add some accessories such as jewelry, scarves, a cute pair of heels or even a ruffled blouse. Just make sure you err on the conservative side. You want the employer to concentrate on you, not your outfit.
I hope these options have helped, and next time around, you’ll be ready for that interview! For more tips, check out the Classy Career Girl’s blog.
P.S. Ann Taylor offers 20 percent off to students. So, no more excuses!
