Business Attire
BUSINESS FORMAL
Guidelines for Everyone
- Make sure everything is clean & wrinkle-free
- Get a manicure, or give yourself one (it’ll make your handshake more confident)
- Keep fragrances, jewelry & other accessories to a non-distracting minimum
- Do a last-minute check in the mirror to make sure your hair is combed, your makeup isn’t smeared, etc.
- Avoid onions & garlic for 24 hrs before the interview or career fair◦Use a breath mint or spray – not gum – a few minutes before!
- Avoid carrying a backpack or casual purse—instead carry a leather bag or portfolio
Guidelines for Women
- Suit (w/ pants, or skirt that falls just below the knee)
- Conservative
- Color that complements your skin-tone & hair color
- Solid-colored blouse◦Simple style
- Avoid low-cut necklines or frilly styles
- Shoes w/ heels (avoid stilettos, though)◦Polished pumps or medium heels in color that matches your outfit
- Stockings – Beige, tan or natural◦Avoid patterns or lacy stockings
- Nothing too tight, too short, or too low-cut
BUSINESS CASUAL
Business Casual does not mean casual. It does not mean that you can dress however you want—you are still expected to look professional.
- Shirts or blouses are acceptable, sweaters or knit tops will also work
- Pants should be non-denim fabrics that complement the top
- The addition of a fashionable jacket is always a nice touch.
Business Etiquette
The Handshake
- If you extend your hand first, extend it vertically (w/ palm facing wall instead of ceiling), to signal cooperation
- Make eye contact & smile
- A firm grip is preferred in US – but avoid knuckle grinding
- 4 to 5 ‘pumps’ conveys confidence & interest. Less appears standoffish & more is overkill
- Practice w/ several different students. This exercise will help you determine what a “normal” amount of grip is
Body Language
- Sit up straight & lean slightly forward
- Don’t fidget
- Watch your personal space. Too close is creepy. Too far looks like you’re ready to flee
- Nod & show agreement & interest, but don’t overdo it
- If you interviewer is interrupted, don’t stare while the interview tends to his/her business◦But, do check in visually & indicated a willingness to leave if they need privacy. This shows good social skills & awareness of others’ needs
