Jenny had one more item to complete on her to do list for the day. She made sure to pick up the Tae Kwon Do uniforms she had ordered last week. Getting the right martial arts uniform was very important to her as she was looking forward to participating in her first competition over the weekend. She had ordered the new outfits for the competition hoping it would give her a boost of self confidence and make her feel like a true competitor. Jenny had always believed that what she wore was a big part of whom she was and who others saw her to be. You could say that she subscribed to the old adage that it is the clothes that make the man or woman as the case may be.
Choosing the right outfit for a specific occasion need not be difficult. Sometimes, as in the case of the competition Jenny was involved in, the outfit requirements are predetermined. It simply becomes a matter of fit and feel. For other situations, it is important to exercise discretion in regard to outfit selection. For example, many people have difficulty knowing how to dress for a job interview. Without getting into job specifics, what one is wearing when meeting someone new is often the first impression? Dressing for success is just an initial way to show that you are someone who is conscientious. Really, there are just a few simple rules to follow when trying to dress for a successful interview.
1. Keep modesty as a top priority. Wearing clothing that is suggestive, be it low cut or too tight is not dressing for success. The attention you will get will not be the kind of attention you are hoping to receive. Immodesty is a distraction and can often be an embarrassment to the other party. Why not get the job for all the right reasons instead of the wrong reason?
2. Do not choose overbearing colors or patterns. Loud clothing can take away from another individual seeing the person behind the clothing. Very bright patterns can be distracting or off putting. It is great to exercise individuality in matters of dress and style, but when interviewing for most jobs, a toned down appearance will benefit the process. You want to be remembered for your skills not as the girl or guy in the Hawaiian shirt.
3. Wear clothes that are clean and pressed. Employers do not necessarily make a mental note that your clothing is clean and pressed but they will most certainly notice if it is not!
4. Dress appropriate to the occasion. Some job interviews call for business attire while other situations require no specific formality. Understand the environment prior to interviewing so that you are dressed appropriately.
5. Tasteful clothing comes in all price ranges. Dressing for success requires a little forethought but it need not be expensive. Tasteful outfits can be created on even the most minimal budget. Employers are not paying attention to whether or not an interview is wearing name brand clothing or expensive accessories.
