Spring Break
A suitable look lands the job
Carlee Brown
Issue date: 4/29/09 Section: News
It wasn't so long ago that many felt secure in their financial situations - and it showed. Khakis and a button down, sans tie, became the uniform of the confident professional. But moods have changed and, although business casual is still the trend for many, standing out requires one's appearance to speak volumes.
Americans are associating modern times with that of the Great Depression, when the hobos dressed better than some of today's CEOs. No longer is the man in cuff links thought to be trying too hard. His attention to detail is considered admirable in a period where many are being forced to prove themselves. The applicant that looks smashing will often triumph over his counterpart with a comparable resume.
"We haven't seen a decrease in business and I think it's because the people conducting interviews want the person to dress up more," said Paul Jones, manager of Walker Brothers Dry Goods. "We are seeing a lot more business suits, vests, and ties. It's kind of like the old days."
To really make a good impression, an interviewee should look impeccable from head to toe. A suit is the necessary foundation from which all details are built. Its heritage stems from military wear designed to highlight a man's strengths. When cut properly and made with a fabric that compliments the individual, it signals authority and commands attention.
"I don't think someone needs to wear a suit, but if they do it shows me they are a little bit more serious about the interview process, " said Eric Airola, Director of Human Resources at J.B. Hunt.
A black suit is acceptable, but a bit formal for an interview. The best choice is either gray or navy and should be made of wool.
The jacket should have two, three, or four buttons and all but the bottom button should remain buttoned while standing. It should become second nature to unbutton all of them when seated, and to button them again when rising from the seat. It is permissible to leave them buttoned while eating dinner. The jacket should never been taken off. A hot day must be endured and a polite host offering to hang it should be politely turned down.
Americans are associating modern times with that of the Great Depression, when the hobos dressed better than some of today's CEOs. No longer is the man in cuff links thought to be trying too hard. His attention to detail is considered admirable in a period where many are being forced to prove themselves. The applicant that looks smashing will often triumph over his counterpart with a comparable resume.
"We haven't seen a decrease in business and I think it's because the people conducting interviews want the person to dress up more," said Paul Jones, manager of Walker Brothers Dry Goods. "We are seeing a lot more business suits, vests, and ties. It's kind of like the old days."
To really make a good impression, an interviewee should look impeccable from head to toe. A suit is the necessary foundation from which all details are built. Its heritage stems from military wear designed to highlight a man's strengths. When cut properly and made with a fabric that compliments the individual, it signals authority and commands attention.
"I don't think someone needs to wear a suit, but if they do it shows me they are a little bit more serious about the interview process, " said Eric Airola, Director of Human Resources at J.B. Hunt.
A black suit is acceptable, but a bit formal for an interview. The best choice is either gray or navy and should be made of wool.
The jacket should have two, three, or four buttons and all but the bottom button should remain buttoned while standing. It should become second nature to unbutton all of them when seated, and to button them again when rising from the seat. It is permissible to leave them buttoned while eating dinner. The jacket should never been taken off. A hot day must be endured and a polite host offering to hang it should be politely turned down.
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business stationary
posted 5/13/09 @ 12:28 PM CST
Yes appearance is important, but as a business owner, I understand that it really goes deeper than that. Credentials, and personality are big when I am looking to add a new member to the team. (Continued…)
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