【For Men】Grooming Tips Before You Sit Down for an Interview | First Impression Is Key!

For Starters

It is said that a person’s first impression is determined within about 6 seconds of meeting. Furthermore, it is said that information received visually plays the biggest role in judgment. This is the same in American job interviews, where it is no exaggeration to say that the first impression given to the interviewer can influence the subsequent decision of acceptance or rejection. However, please be assured. By following the points explained from now on and taking care of your appearance, anyone can make a good impression.

In this article, we introduce the following for men who are about to have job or career change interviews:

• Attire suitable for job hunting
• Grooming checklist before the interview

Let’s prepare thoroughly and secure that job offer!

Attire suitable for job hunting

For job interviews, even if there is no specific dress code, you should wear a suit. Here, we will explain appropriate grooming for interviews, divided into two parts: points to consider when choosing a suit and essential items other than a suit.

Points to consider when choosing a suit:

When embarking on a job hunt, whether as a new graduate or when changing careers, wearing a business suit can create a positive impression on your interviewer.

The design and color

Color: Navy, Dark Gray Design: Solid, Stripe

Choose a set that includes both jacket and trousers. When wearing it, leave the bottom button undone. (Unbutton the jacket when sitting down.)

Other essential items when wearing a suit

Next, I will explain the essential items when wearing a suit.

Dress shirt

Choose a dress shirt in either solid white or sax blue. Steer clear of button-down collars due to their casual appearance. Ensure the shirt is neatly ironed if wrinkled, and substitute it with a clean one if it’s dirty.

Necktie

Choose a tie that matches the color of your suit. It is safe not to choose ones with flashy and bright colors. Classic colors include blue, burgundy, gray, and shades of yellow. Avoid ties with too flashy patterns; solid colors, checks, stripes, and regimental are good choices.

Leather/Dress shoes

Choose a belt made of leather material. Also, matching the color of the belt with the color of your leather shoes is a basic principle when wearing a suit. Avoid belts with flashy buckles.

Socks

Choose longer socks in black or navy. This part can be surprisingly visible when seated, so short socks or those with patterns may give the interviewer an impression of sloppiness.

Accessories

In addition to the items mentioned above, there are watches and other accessories. It is recommended to wear a watch that is simple and not too casual during an interview. Remove items such as earrings, necklaces, and rings.

Here’s a grooming checklist to go through before an interview

We have summarized six appearance and attire checkpoints you should be mindful of on the day of the interview.

1. The suit should be clean and coordinated.

After selecting a suit, take a moment to examine your reflection in the mirror. Ensure that the suit presents a cohesive appearance, fits properly, and is free from any stains or dirt.

2. Shoes and bags are free of dirt or scratches.

Dirt on leather shoes and bags can be surprisingly noticeable. To avoid giving a negative impression, make sure to check them thoroughly before using them for your interview.

3. Double-check that your necktie is tied properly.

Ensure your tie is securely fastened while checking in the mirror, and double-check its tightness right before your interview.

4. The bottom button of the suit is left undone.

When wearing a suit, leave the bottom button undone. When sitting down, unbutton all of them. This prevents wrinkles and maintains the silhouette.

5. Socks should be black or navy and long.

Check if your socks are appropriate. Wear long socks to ensure that your skin does not show when you sit down.

6. The beard and hairstyle are clean and tidy.

Maintain a neat appearance by grooming your beard and hair. If you have brightly colored hair, consider refreshing the dye, and address any bed hair. For bangs that obscure your eyes, style them upward or to the side using hair products.

In Conclusion

In this article, we have explained the points of grooming suitable for interviews, targeting those who are job hunting. We mentioned points that are not usually a concern in daily life, so there might have been things you did not know or had forgotten. However, the most important thing during an interview is to maintain cleanliness and understand the Time, Place, and Occasion (TPO). Interviewers judge whether you are the right person for the job based on this. Practice the points explained here thoroughly and secure your job offer.

At HRAIT, we not only introduce you to the perfect job but also provide comprehensive support for job seekers’ employment and career changes. We help with free consultations and resume creation. Let’s achieve career advancement in the United States together!