![](https://www.onlythegoodnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/David-Lawrence-Office2.jpg)
Dijanna Mulhearn
Job-hunting is nerve-wracking at best and right now you can count on your competition pulling out all stops. The first impression counts as much as your resume, so think it through.
First, select your outfit for what it will project about you. An office job means conservative and reliable, no wildcards. Consider a neat and formfitting silhouette without looking stitched up. A shift dress or structured suit with a soft blouse is great. Or separates such as a softly gathered skirt to the knee and a silk shell top find strength with a sharp blazer. Wear interesting accessories or a fab bag to showcase your personal style.
For a job in an artistic field you have free reign and your outfit should express your taste and style without looking contrived or theatrical. For a retail position you want to be approachable and on trend. Look at current colours and shapes, choose one that suits you and work it. Don’t try to combine many trends at once or you will miss the mark.
Secondly consider colours carefully. Hot colours are eye-catching. A red shirt with plum skirt says a dynamic go-getter who is not afraid of challenges. This is a bold combo so be sure you have the confidence and the ability to back it up.
Cool colours provide a chic palette leaving the focus purely on your personality. A sky blue satin top with grey flannel tailored pants and some patent heels say serious yet stylish without being showy. Add a little sparkle around the neck or a bright belt and you are ready for after-work drinks.
Whatever you wear you want the neckline to frame the face not other assets. Wear simple shapes in interesting colour combos or prints that are not distracting. In a simple navy suit with a striped shirt and you risk looking like all the other applicants and may fade into the background. Hair is to be neat and pulled up if long. Clear nail polish only – no colour or French polish.
DO
- Do be open – smile easily and shake hands confidently but not too firm
- Do focus on what the interviewer is asking and answer the question
- Do be a team player but highlight the skills that are unique to you
- Do make sure your outfit is pressed – pop on your jacket just before the interview to keep it looking crisp
- Do project an image of confidence and responsibility in a friendly way
DON’T
- Don’t trash talk your previous employer
- Don’t talk too excitedly, too loudly or gesticulate too much
- Don’t wear a plunging neckline, a hem more than an inch above the knee or sky high stilettos.
- Don’t turn up with more than one bag, it looks messy and disorganised.
- Don’t act like you’ve already got the job, just let them know you can do it
Lead photo outfit by David Lawrence
www.davidlawrence.com.au
www.marcs.com.au
www.jigsawclothing.com.au
www.wardrobe101.com.au
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