Dress to Impress

It’s true that first impressions are long lasting. Dressing appropriately for an interview can help you jump-start that lasting first impression.  

The world of public accounting is professional -- and on the conservative side. In order to demonstrate your "fit," your clothing during the interview should reflect that of a professional. Once you get the job, it is still important to dress for success, but you may be able to dress in business casual attire. Here are some tips on how to dress for success:

Tips for Men:

Business Professional:

Clean, pressed slacks (no jeans or khakis) or a suit
A dress belt
Long-sleeved collared dress shirt
Subdued tie of medium width
Over-the-calf dress socks that are darker than the slacks
Shined, conservative shoes

Business Casual:
Khakis or dress pants
Golf shirt or other collared shirt
Dress shoes
Dress socks
Belt

Tips for Women:

Business Professional:

Conservative knee-length dress, skirt or suit
Conservative pant suit
Solid color shirt or blouse
Neutral colored nylons or trouser socks
Shined, closed-toed shoes

Business Casual:
Dress pants or skirt
Blouse or sweater set
Trouser socks or nylons
Dress shoes

There are definite "dos" when it comes to grooming for an interview:

Dry-clean and iron your clothes
Bathe and use deodorant
Brush your teeth
Groom and style your hair and nails
Repair and polish shoes

There are definite "don'ts" when it comes to grooming for an interview:

Don’t wear too much jewelry. Less is always more
Excessively high hems or too deep of a v or neckline
Although super cute; bolos, strings or bow ties aren’t appropriate for an interview
Worn heels, boots or tennis shoes
A big no-no is to arrive smelling of liquor or smoke
Forego the aftershave, perfume and cologne

You have only one chance to make a lasting first impression - make it a good one!