When you dress up in a suit, you tend to stand straighter and project more confidence, which people will respond to positively. Professional dress is not the same for every situation. Khaki's and a polo can be appropriate professional attire for a fast-food job interview, while nothing less than a three-piece suit will do for an interview at a law firm. A good rule of thumb for interviews: always dress one step above what employees at that business wear to work.
Our confidence and self-esteem often come from the reflection we see of ourselves in others. Why not show our best selves at work — in what we wear and how we perform our tasks? Sometimes we all must fake it until we make it, but dressing well helps bring true authenticity and unique confidence to the table when working with others. First impressions matter. Perception matters. It matters because the way people perceive us will most likely dictate our next career move, if and how we are hired, and the ways people treat us.
When we look polished and professional, people are more likely to trust us and instill confidence in our work. Considering that standards vary so much, how do you know how to dress?
Comfort : Wearing ill-fitting clothes — whether too tight or too loose or unsuitable for your body type — should always be avoided. If you are uncomfortable, it will make your work day truly awful. Find something that fits the outer and inner you.
Modesty : When in doubt, cover up. Closed-toe shoes, skirts or dresses below the knee, no shorts, sleeves to the wrists and no exposed shoulders are all good rules of thumb. Appearance ranked second only to communication skills when respondents named qualities most often associated with professionalism, according to a national poll conducted by the Center for Professional Excellence at York College of Pennsylvania.
Although a one-size-fits-all or universal dress code may not be achievable or realistic, some universal guidelines are possible and could include:. Be modest. It is most important to get attention for great work rather than gaining attention for wearing the latest fashion fad or in appropriate leisure wear or sportswear found outside the office at a sports event, party or beach. Beware of casual Fridays. Casual Fridays have the potential to turn into real fashion disasters.
It is important to remember that the workweek has not ended on Thursday and that the images and messages sent on Friday must be consistent with each of the previous days of the week. Be comfortable. This applies to the fit of your attire and the comfort of the shoes you wear.
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