Women
Men

You've heard the expression, "You never get a second chance to make a first impression." In the corporate world you've got to be sharp to be successful. Part of  being sharp means knowing how to think, behave and how to dress appropriately for various occasions.

To find out how to dress for your interview, you could call the organization's personnel office and ask for their recommendation. You may not always be able to do that, but you can always check with the staff in the CDC.  Today more and more organizations are dressing casually (that doesn't mean jeans and tee shirts). We recommend that you maintain conservative attire for any interviewing situation unless you're directed to do otherwise by the interviewer. Most situations call for conservative suits/outfits that demonstrate your understanding and reaction to the occasion. Below are some general guidelines for women and men that will help you to prepare your clothing for your interview.

Women's Interviewing Attire

Clothing: A business suit is suggested for both women as well as men for the interviewing process. A woman's business suit should be conservative in style, of high quality and be a basic medium to dark color such as blue, gray, or black. Although a business suit is the preferred clothing, a two-piece dress, skirt and blazer, or a dress and jacket are also acceptable. Women should avoid wearing pants to interviews.

Hair: A conservative, attractive, and controlled hair style is suggested. If your hair is longer than shoulder length, it should be worn up or pulled to the back. Avoid large hair ornaments and trendy hairstyles.

Make-up and Perfume: Wear minimal make-up to a job interview. Avoid bright colors and excessive amounts. Light shades of lip coloring and nail polish are recommended. Check nails to make sure they are clean and manicured. Avoid perfume since others could be allergic to certain fragrances.

Jewelry and Accessories: It  is recommended that only a moderate amount of jewelry be worn to a job interview. All jewelry worn should be conservative and small in size. Gold, silver or pearls are best. Costume jewelry should be avoided. Plan on wearing a watch at all times. Either a purse or an attache case may be taken to the interview. Both should be conservative in both design and color. When possible the color of the purse should match the shoe color. A high-quality pen, pad of note paper, extra resumes, and list of references and transcripts should be carried to a job interview.

Shoes and Stockings: Polished, closed-toed pumps should be worn to a job interview. The shoes should be conservative and be in good repair. Flats should be considered by women who are above average in height, and heels should be considered by women who are below average in height. Heels should never be higher than 2 and 1/2 inches. Stockings should also be conservative, without runs, and neutral in color. It is best to match the skin tone as close to possible.

Men's Interviewing Attire

Men there is a lot info below and here's another site www.dressforsuccess.com/

For most occasions men will where a two piece suit and tie for the interview. In some instances you might be required to bring more casual attire for a possible plant tour or other more casual event. Listed below are some clothing categories and the CDC staff's recommendations on what to where.

Suits: Conservative/traditional suits are recommended. Charcoal grey solids or with a subtle pattern are acceptable. Navy blue suits are generally ok, but the tend to look a little to "flashy". Again, navy blue solids or subtle patterned suits are acceptable. Suits should be fitted and neatly pressed. Use your suit for interviewing only. Have it dry cleaned only when necessary. Excessive dry cleaning can prematurely wear out your suit. Remember that you have $300 on text books for one semester so don't go cheap on the suits!  A good suit will cost around $300 and last for many years. A cheap department store suit will look cheap and wear out quickly. You should go to a good men's store for advice on how to look for quality clothing and proper fit, even if you don't buy a suit from them. Advice is free.

Shoes: Black or oxblood (burgundy) shoes are recommended. You should get shoes that have laces on them (i.e. wing tips) because tassel loafers are very casual.  Loafers are for "loafers". Do you want to look like a loafer? You should polish your shoes as well.

Shirts: White, button-down, long-sleeve, cotton shirt is the number one recommendation for men (blue is an acceptable alternative, but white is preferred)  This is the easiest decision. Everything goes with a white shirt. There's no hassle trying to guess what suit or tie looks best. If you don't like button-down shirts, you should get a straight collar shirt. You shouldn't wear a collar bar to hold the collars together. Men should not wear much jewelry (see below).

Ties: Conservative is the rule of the day. Your tie should be conservative. Make sure that the tie goes with the suit. You should tie a "four-in-hand" knot in your tie (check with the CDC for directions). In men's clothing ties are the item that makes a statement about the wearer. This is not the time to make strong statements about your individuality. Flashy ties are out in the interview process. You want the recruiter to look you in the eye and focus on you and your abilities, not your tie. Mickey Mouse ties and ties that look like prize rainbow trout are amusing and the interview is not the place for them.

Socks: Black socks are the best call. They go with anything including blue suits. You can also wear blue or grey depending on your suit. Make sure that you socks are long enough to almost reach your knee. When you cross your legs and show you masculine leg to the recruiter, it can be a bit distracting. Important note: NEVER WEAR WHITE SOCKS!

Belts: A belt should should match your shoes, black or burgundy (depending on the shoes). Never wear a big ol' buckle that has your name on it to an interview.  Remember be conservative.

Jewelry and Cologne: Men should wear little or no jewelry or cologne to an interview. The only safe bets are a watch and/or a class ring. No necklaces, bracelets, or pierced body parts. Remember, you want them to see you and pay attention to you. You don't want someone who might be allergic to your cologne or distracted by your jewelry to evaluate you for a great job.