Whether you’re looking for a summer job, your first career or are a seasoned pro looking to make a change, job interviews are just no fun. Stressing about making a great first impression can cause more than just a sweaty handshake. Inadequate sleep or not eating properly can take your nervous jitters to a whole new level.

While there is not surefire way to nail an interview, it always helps to look the part.

Lucky for us all, the stiff 90’s power suit is a thing of the past. Shoulder pads should be used in moderation in 2014.

Helpful tips:

1.       Coordinate your outfit with the type of job you are applying for. If you’re interviewing to be a senior analyst at a high profile agency, structured pieces with minimal pattern is best. A blazer doesn’t have to be constricting or boring. You would be hard pressed to find a designer that doesn’t offer chic office-appropriate pieces. If you are heading into a creative field in a trendy office building, dress in a way to showcase your creative side. High-waisted dress pants with a non-traditional blazer is a fresh way to incorporate trendy pieces into a professional look. Colour is fun, but don’t overdo it, you want your knowledge and work ethic to take centre stage.

2.       More and more offices are following a casual dress code. Don’t let this fool you; this does NOT apply to the interview. Your favourite pair of skinny jeans may hug you in all the right places, but an interview is not the time or place. Your new pedicure might match the sparkle in your eye, but cover those toes! You may have also heard that you should dress for the position above the one you are interviewing for. This doesn’t mean a full 3-piece suit, but it should involve a little extra polish from your everyday routine.

3.       Hygiene is key. Hair should be clean and styled in a way that won’t leave you fiddling with it. Nails should be groomed and modest, try a neutral polish or dare to go bare. Make up should be tasteful and minimal. If you are one who sweats when you get nervous, keep that in mind when choosing your outfit. Pick a fabric that breathes and hides the tell-tale sweat marks. Also, keep in mind that many offices have a scent-free policy. Try to keep any perfume to a minimum. You want your interviewer to remember your problem-solving skills and talent not the lingering Chanel in the air.

4.       Be comfortable. Try wearing your interview outfit around the house or out on a few errands as a trial run. If you find the outfit constrictive or uncomfortable, its back to the drawing board.

5.       Let your personality shine through, in moderation. If you love to dress in bold colours or wild prints because it shows off your sassy side, try incorporating this in one element of your look, like a bold watch or patterned blouse. It’s always best to show your fun side during an interview through charm and charisma, rather than a sequined dress better suited to ringing in the New Year.

What is your best interview advice?

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