If you want the job, you need to create the right impression.
-Make sure it's appropriate for the job you're going for and that it's clean and tidy. I heard of a woman going to an interview wearing a sheer top with a dark bra showing underneath. It might be a fashion trend, but it's not appropriate for work, let alone an interview.
-Does the colour/s of the outfit enhance your appearance? If the colour is wrong, it could make you look tired or even sick.
-Never go casual. Someone recently wore Jandals to an interview.
-If you don't have an outfit, and can't afford to buy one, consider borrowing something from a friend/s or check out Dress for Success in your area, a charity that helps women into the workforce.
Be well groomed
Attention to detail is very important.
-Ensure that your hair and makeup are done.
-Fingernails should be clean and neat. If you wear nail polish, ensure it's not chipped.
-Your shoes are neat and tidy - polish them if you need to.
This isn't just about jobs ...
Think about new relationships or dating. Okay, it's really important to be who you are, but again, first impressions count. If you're dating online, think about your profile - the photo and words you use. If you're going on a date, make the effort to dress well.
The same with people who are in sales or business development roles. You are the front person for your company, you need to create the right impression, and how you present yourself is a very important part of this.
I will never forget Dragon's Den judge Peter Jones declining involvement with an entrepreneur because they had turned up wearing jeans. He was incensed that this person did not have the courtesy to make the effort and dress appropriately for the investment pitch.
Earn 30 per cent more: Just wear makeup
A study by the American Economic Review said that women who wear makeup can earn more than 30 per cent more in pay than non-makeup wearing workers. Another American study also showed that women wearing makeup were also ranked higher in competence and trustworthiness.
The article goes on to say that if you're tall, attractive, look like you work out or blonde, you're also likely to earn more.
I find all of this abhorrent and I'm sure (I hope) it doesn't happen in New Zealand, but regardless of the degree to which it happens, it is a fact that your personal appearance does have an impact on your employment prospects, business development opportunities and all new relationships.
Consider your appearance as the first tick box in someone's assessment of you. Once that box is ticked, they move on to the next criteria.
Do yourself a favour. Put your best foot forward, every time.
Lisa Lyford is the founder of Gorgeous Me, free DIY personal styling and makeover advice. www.gorgeousme.co
Send your questions for Lisa to regionalfeatures@nzme.co.nz
