In a job interview, what you don’t say counts.
How you presented yourself on paper may have got you in the door; but now, your manners, gestures and wardrobe choices could help get you the job.
A lot of communication is non-verbal, and in the hiring process your appearance and behaviour can be an asset or a liability, says image consultant Erin Miller, who spent over a decade in the corporate world and now makes it her business to ensure job candidates present themselves in the best light.
It’s true that you should dress for the job you want, and investing in a good suit is never a bad idea. You want something simple, well-made and timeless—a suit that will last and always look smart. Go for wool over polyester because you will get more mileage out of it; with wear, polyester will start to shine.
“Invest in tailoring,” asserts Miller, who is Principal of Erin Miller Image. “Retail is not made to measure, so if it’s a little too small, go for the bigger size and get it taken in. Regardless of whether the piece was $200 or $2,000, if it doesn’t fit right it’s not going to do.”
In the shoe department, opt for modest and formal. For men, choose lace-up shoes over slip-ons; and for women, heel height should be no more than three inches.
How to Dress
- A good wool-blend suit in a neutral colour (grey, black, navy, khaki or brown)
- A tailored dress shirt or blouse
- For men: wear a tie if you are interviewing in a business formal or business-casual environment; if you are interviewing in a casual environment, a tie may be too formal
- For women: go with the suit unless you are interviewing for a casual environment, and in that case, wear a button-up top or something else on the modest side with either a skirt or dress slacks
- A pair of dress shoes
- A carry-bag in brown or black, large enough to fit your portfolio
That’s a lot to buy, especially on a student budget, but there are ways to buy smart. Certain retailers offer student discounts. Otherwise, take advantage of sales and try not to wait until you have the interview the next day.
“You always want to look age appropriate. Students think they have to look like their parents just because they’re entering the workplace, but that’s not the case,” Miller says. “Trendy colours and accessories can inject personality into your wardrobe. Those things you can keep on the cheap and cheerful side.”
One thing to leave out is fragrance. Smell is the most powerful of all the senses, and the last thing you want to do is distract your interviewer from what you have to say.
What to Say
“Prepare for the interview like you prepare for any other endeavour or exam. A lot of students spend time researching the organization online, but they should spend equal time on preparing answers to specific behavioural questions,” Miller says.
Nerves are not a bad thing and most interviewers will expect some—actually, nerves can give you great energy. If you’re feeling a bit tense in the interview chair, chances are you’re engaged and sitting up straight. Take a notebook and pen because it will give you something to do with your hands instead of constantly gesturing and appearing anxious.
What to Do
- Start with a firm handshake
- Keep a comfortable amount of eye contact
- Sit up straight
- Turn your phone off—not just to vibrate
- Follow up with a thank-you message
Natural conversation has natural pauses, so use the glass of water provided to remind yourself of pacing and to avoid nervous laughter after responses. Let the interviewers know if you need to take a moment to think about your answers.
“Remember, it’s a two-way street,” says Miller. “The interview is the best opportunity for you and for them to find the best fit. Ask questions to get a sense of their managerial style and whether or not you’d be happy in the position.”
