Dressing for Success
Employers make judgments and form opinions of candidates within the first minute of an interview. You really never get a "second chance to make a first impression". It is essential to present yourself in a neat, business-like and professional manner.
Men and Women
- Conservative two-piece business suit (solid dark blue or grey is best)
- Conservative long-sleeved shirt/blouse (white is best, pastel is next best)
- Clean, polished conservative shoes
- Well-groomed hairstyle
- Clean, trimmed fingernails
- Minimal cologne or perfume
- Empty pockets--no bulges or tinkling coins
- No gum, candy or cigarettes
- Light briefcase or portfolio case
- No visible body piercing (nose rings, eyebrow rings, etc.)
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Men
- Necktie should be silk with a conservative pattern
- Shined dark shoes (black lace-ups are best, dark brown, next best)
- Dark socks (black is best)
- Get a haircut; short hair always fares best in interviews
- No beards (unless you are interviewing for a job as a lumberjack!)
- Mustaches are a possible negative, but if you must, make sure it is neat and trimmed
- No rings other than wedding ring or college ring
- No earrings (if you normally wear one, take it out)
- Conservative, two-piece, darker color or muted plaid business suit.
- White shirt
- Contrasting tie
- Light on cologne
Women
- Skirted suit, dark in color or muted plaid; preferably no dresses.
- Simple style blouse, white or soft color - no low necklines
- Polished pumps or medium heels in a color that matches your outfit (conservative heels)
- A hair style that does not distract from your professional image
- Light on perfume
- Minimal jewelry
- Understated natural makeup (minimal makeup, should not be too noticeable)
- Clear or lightly tinted nail polish - fingernails should be no longer than medium length
- If you wear nail polish (not required), use clear or a conservative color
- No purses, small or large; carry a briefcase instead
- No more than one ring on each hand
- One set of earrings only
- For females, we do not recommend pant suits.
- PS: please note, due to Ghana’s climate, there are exceptions to some of these rules.
Source: http://jobsearch.about.com/od/interviewsnetworking/a/dressforsuccess.htm