The clothes you wear to an interview can make a big difference in the first impression you leave with your potential new manager. You don’t want to overdress, but you definitely don’t want to under-dress either! 

It’s important to consider the working environment where the new job will be when going in for an interview. That can make a big difference in how you look and the expectations of a manager for your interview. You wouldn’t wear a three-piece suit to interview at a job where you’ll be working with your hands and getting dirty on the job, just like you wouldn’t go into a corporate environment in ripped jeans and a frayed t-shirt. . 

Here are a few other tips for dressing for success at your next job interview. 

• Be comfortable but present well.  You want to feel comfortable in what you’re wearing. If something is too tight, or too big, you’ll focus too much on how you look than paying attention to the conversation you’re having. Try on the outfit you intend to wear to the interview a day or two in advance to make sure everything is clean and tidy and fits nicely and that you feel good in it. 

• Think about the environment. If you’re interviewing for a manufacturing job, you want to show that you’re aware of the working conditions. If you have a pair of clean work boots, you might want to wear those to the interview. If you’re going to interview for a job that has a lot of machinery and moving parts, keep the accessories — ties, necklaces, anything that might get caught — to a minimum. You want to demonstrate, visually, that you understand the position and are prepared to dress for the job. It’s a nice subtle cue to the person you’re meeting with that you’re aware of the environment. 

• Be professional but don’t overshoot. If you’re going in for an entry-level job, leave the suit at home. The old advice about dressing for the job you want is key! Showing up in clothes that oversell the position might come across as trying too hard and it might concern the manager that you’re only considering this position temporarily on your way to something else. 

• What is considered acceptable?  For manufacturing jobs, clean, untattered jeans might be fine; if you’d feel more comfortable in khakis or trousers, that’s fine too. A polo shirt or button-down shirt is perfectly appropriate. Leave the sweats at home, no matter how professional that Instagram ad told you they might look. You probably don’t need a tie or suit jacket, but if you’d feel more put-together in a blazer, go for it. Be sure your shoes are closed-toes and have solid soles on them. Sneakers are a no-go. If you’re really not sure what to wear, contact the person who has been your contact for setting up the interview and double check the company’s dress code or expectations. 

• What about your hair? Here again, you want to come across as someone who should be considered for the position. Manufacturing jobs might require a more conservative look overall, or at least something that looks professional. If you’re considering changing your hair color to something outside the natural range of hues, maybe wait until after you get the job. If your hair is long, tie it back or pull it up so your interviewer can see your face when having the conversation. Continuing with your overall appearance, keep the accessories to a minimum, nothing too flashy or outrageous.

Getting ready for a job interview doesn’t need to be stressful. Make sure you’ll look good, professional and comfortable and be ready with a good, confident smile and a steady, solid handshake, then let your knowledge and experience win them over! 

If you’re looking for more interview advice, or if you want to keep other options in mind, call Davis Staffing. Our recruiters and experts can help you find a great job that will help you advance your career, building new skills and adding to your knowledge while you earn a great paycheck. Take a look at the positions we’re working to fill, then give us a call to talk about what you find. Let’s find a new job in 2024!