Interviewing – Part II

 

Dress for Your Audience

 

We know, and perhaps are, people who have a certain look of clothing, hairstyle and color.  It often makes a personal statement.  Perhaps, it sets them apart from the crowd and creates a special appearance.  In specific settings where a unique appearance is important and appreciated it may be just the right thing to do.  In other settings it can be a disaster.

 

Our industry generally tends to be more conservative in grooming and appearance, although I am sure there are many exceptions.  The interviewee needs to prepare for his or her audience.

 

My philosophy is:  Do not let your appearance get in the way of your interview.  Make sure they remember you for what you say and not how you look.

 

If you have done your research you may already have a good idea of how employees are expected to dress for work each day.  Your interview dress and grooming should be at least one or two steps up from the normal day-to-day dress.

 

• If the day-to-day dress tends to be a casual (jeans and t-shirt) environment show up to your interview in (men) dress slacks, shirt, and tie or (women) dress suit, slacks or skirt.   For men, the jacket or blazer is a good touch but may be optional.  New shoes that could be worn on the job may be a good idea.

 

• If the day-to-day dress tends to be more formal you may need to invest in a (men) suit, dress shirt and tie.  Don’t forget the shoes.  A new suit and an old pair of hikers won’t cut it.  Ladies may choose a more formal dress or suit option.  A great excuse to buy new shoes!

 

• If you are one of the many folks now wearing tattoos or other decorative body art you may have a greater task to overcome if you are sitting in front of a conservative man or woman during your interview.  (Hear the shouting?)  But, that’s not fair!  Well, who said life was fair.  It will get better as more people with body art are promoted to management responsibilities.  Of course, then, you will not like some of the new styles of people you interview.  And, life goes on.

 An interview is:

 

Not a party

Not a time to make a personal style statement

Not a funeral

 

An interview is place and time to have an enjoyable discussion, between professionals, who love the geospatial sciences and have a mutually beneficial need for employment and a new employee.