Preparing Physically for the Interview

It seems obvious, but you must ensure that your clothes and appearance will not negatively impact on the individuals who will be part of the interview process.

That's not to suggest you look and dress like a movie star. However, it's recommended that you make sure your clothes fit and are appropriate for the audience.

It's understandable that being unemployed creates certain mental and financial pressures that often result in stress-related eating disorders. Translated: You put on a few extra pounds in the wrong places.

Nothing is more distracting than to sit for an hour and look at someone dressed in a suit that is three sizes too small. Shirts that don't button at the collar and belts that are out to the last hole signal that one small facet of your life is out of control.

I remember one time when a slightly overweight gentleman came into my office for a screening interview. When he sat down, the first thing I noticed was his belly protruding between his shirt buttons. If you asked me today what I remembered most about this candidate, the exposed belly would come to mind. His poor appearance detracted from anything of substance he had to say.

If your clothes don't fit, either attempt to lose the weight or purchase new clothes that will do your physique some justice. The objective is not to leave the employer with the impression that you are a snazzy dresser but to neutralize your appearance so that it doesn't negatively affect the potential employer's perception of you. I have yet to see an employer hire someone because of his or her spiffy appearance, but many candidates have been disqualified because of shabby or poorly fitted clothing.

A final thought on dressing for the occasion. Keep track of the outfits you wear to each interview. Try to vary your wardrobe when the interview process requires multiple visits to the same office. Wearing the same maroon sports coat on three successive interviews might lead the company to think you only have one coat—that you're really down on your luck and desperate for any job. Borrow an extra coat if you have to. Just make sure it fits.

Дата добавления: 2015-08-27