Are you lost on how to dress for a virtual interview?
During recruitment season last semester I attended multiple virtual interview sessions, some privately with recruiters, and other times I was placed in a break out room with other potential candidates. With virtual recruiting being new territory for many, I noticed several interviewees were wearing different variations of interview attire. Some wore casual polos or blouses while others wore a suit and tie. Students were confused on how they should dress during interviews, especially in a virtual setting.
We’ve all heard the age-old saying, “When you look good, you feel good!” Be the best version of yourself, and dress how you would if you were interviewing in person.
As tempting as it sounds to roll into an interview with fuzzy slippers and pajama pants, it is critical to put your best foot forward. Try to ditch the pajama pants, even if the recruiter will only see your top half. Though you may be in a comfortable space, remember that first impressions are everything to a recruiter, remember to make a good one!
There are multiple levels you could be interviewing for, the position you are applying for will influence how you dress. Always remember to read over the interview invite to check what the expected attire will be. For most internships and full time positions, business professional is the standard expectation.
What is Business Professional?
Typically, business professional attire includes a suit. This would be a nice pair of pants with a matching or complementing blazer on top. Most males wear a button up shirt and tie under the blazer. Females have a wide variety of blouses they usually wear under the blazer. Some choose to wear a dress or skirt, whatever suits your fancy. As long as you feel confident and comfortable with what you are wearing you can’t go wrong!
The finishing touches sometimes slips students' minds. Don’t forget a nice pair of shoes with your business-professional ensemble. With virtual interviews, it’s better to be safe than sorry and wear your favorite pair of dress shoes during your interview. Who knows…your interviewer may ask you to do some interactive activities, requiring a full range of motion.
Dress for success and treat a virtual interview as if it was in person. If you feel the part, you will act the part, and secure that dream job!
Check out the JCPenney Suit-Up Online Event to receive an extra 30% off on Career Apparel (01/29-01/30) https://www.cco.purdue.edu/Calendar/Event/D4D069641959525D64F8DF771B101154
Learn more, “Online Interview Tips”, on the CCO Blog! https://www.purduecco.com/single-post/2020/09/11/online-interviewing-tips
Boiler Up!
- Elizabeth V.
