Looking sloppy is the single biggest turn off for hiring managers. When asked what characteristics are the most off-putting, two thirds of companies surveyed sited sloppy and unclean appearance as worst thing about a job applicant.

Amazingly applicants are not taking the time to think about their appearance. Following a few simple rules of dress can put you ahead of the employment pack.

It might not be fair but you are judged on your appearance. When you go to an interview or networking event looking crumpled, inappropriately dressed or too casual you will not be taken seriously. Seems obvious but job seekers often forget that what they look like matters.

David Rubin of Suited To You (www.suited-to-you.com) advises you prepare for your interview by getting a feel for the dress culture of the company. Talk to the receptionist, anonymously, and find out the dress code for the day you are interviewing and ask how often, if ever, the person you are interviewing with wears a suit.

Well before the day of the meeting, go through your closet to evaluate what works and doesn’t. It’s not a bad idea to enlist professional help with this.

Choose the suit, shirts, ties that are in the best condition. Try everything on. Make sure shoes are polished, socks match, and you are cleaned and pressed.

Posted by: Camilla Dadey

This entry was posted on Friday, January 4th, 2008 at 11:23 pm and is filed under Interviewing. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.