Job fair to promote diversity in New York
According to Marky Stein of Monster.com, "A formal study of hiring managers in more than 400 companies by the 'San Jose Mercury News' concluded the average employer makes a hiring decision within 15 seconds of meeting you." In other words, there's only one chance to make a favorable first impression. Rather than wearing jeans and sneakers, give your job hunt a boost with a professional-looking outfit. Remember, it's always better to look too elite, rather than simply okay.
Instructions
Women's Attire
1. Wear a suit. Pant or skirt suits are suitable, though skirt suits make a more feminine impression. For the widest appeal, stick to black, gray or navy. A well-made wool gabardine or twill is always nice, and looks crisp.
2. Look your age. Don't dress too young or too old. These days, lookism has hit the boardroom, so leave that boxy power-shoulder suit in the closet. Hire a tailor to fit your clothing to your body so that you look neat, not frumpy.
3. Wear a shoe with a slight heel. This will make you stand up straighter than a pair of flats, and will improve the posture. The little bit of elevation may even turn out to be more comfortable than flats, in the long run. Top out the heel height at 2 inches, since job fairs involve lots of standing.
4. Wear an interesting, but tasteful, accessory piece to distinguish you from the crowd. This is an excellent time for that vintage brooch, or a striking scarf. These little touches are just enough to make one stick out in a recruiter's mind.
5. Dress in a suitable alternative such as a conservative dress, twin set, skirt or pant outfit, if you don't own a suit. For executive posts, this isn't the best option, but it will work for most other administrative positions.
Men's Job Fair Wear
6. Show up in the nicest suit that you own. If possible, wear a three-piece suit and suspenders. The more formal suit creates an air of power and gravitas. Stay away from khakis and sweaters. These are too informal.
7. Wear dress shoes that are freshly tended and polished. It might seem irritating to pay the extra for a shoe shine, but people often scan for things like shoe quality when distinguishing power and rank.
8. Get a hair cut. Since men's hair is often very clean and structured in the business world, look your best by getting a fresh trim. For those with a beard, trim and shape the facial hair. Keep haircuts conservative, although younger men can get away with a bit of spiking depending on the field.
9. Wear a minimum of jewelry. Stick to sophisticated touches like tie tacks, cuff links and a metal watch. Leave the thick chains, earrings and chunky rings at home, since they often look unprofessional.
Tags: skirt suits
