It is difficult to comprehend how quickly we have advanced with technology. When it comes to interviews, things have really changed – now you can talk face to face about an upcoming job without ever leaving your home!
This brings up some interesting questions about interview dress, particularly for a Skype interview, and what is appropriate. If you are wondering how to dress for an Internet interview where you will not meet in person, the following tips will get you dressed for success.
Is a Skype interview less formal?
An interview is an interview, no matter how it is performed. For that reason, your interview dress for a Skype interview is every bit as important as when you are visiting your employer's office. Put as much effort into how you look as you would if you were shaking your interviewer's hand. Hair, makeup and clothes should be business professional.
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Only the top half matters
Actually, that is not true. Feeling professional is as important as looking it. Test it: measure how you feel when you are wearing pajamas compared to how you feel about yourself when you put extra effort into dressing up.
Dress completely, from head to toe, in shoes, accessories and all the clothes you would wear if you were going out. Even if that seems silly, what if you had to stand up for your interview? It would be utterly embarrassing to be caught with sweats or something slouchy on.
What is interview dress?
The University of Oklahoma has put together a great PDF on different business attire. According to this document, business interview attire for men is a full, matching suit with a crisp, collared shirt and tie beneath. For women, a black skirt suit is considered the standard, but other colors are acceptable as long as the ensemble is professional.
Do I have to buy a new suit?
Interview expectations have become a little less stringent, so if you are looking at spending several hundred dollars to buy an interview suit, get creative and find something suitable, yet professional. You can probably ditch the suit jacket, but a nice button up shirt, neatly pressed and starched if necessary, would be a good choice for the top. Pair this with slacks or a formal skirt for a great alternative to formal interview dress.
While we are talking about interview dress, let's not forget the room your interview will be taking place in. Turn on Skype and take a critical look at the background visible from your computer's webcam. Is there anything you would prefer your employers not to see? Make sure the floor and walls behind you are clean and professional and that any extraneous clutter is removed, leaving you with a presentable and professional backdrop for your interview. If necessary, add additional lighting to make sure your employer sees the most important part – you.
Even if it seems excessive, dressing completely and professionally will help boost your confidence, something most of us need during the rigors of an interview. How you dress for an interview tells employers how serious you are for a job, so take the time and make effort to look your best. Good luck!
