I heard this question over and over again during the Fall Career and Internship Fair held on November 4th. Unfortunately the answer was far too often, “No. Not really.” Don’t get me wrong, many of the 600+ students and alumni present were dressed up, but there is a huge difference between ripping the runway and meeting a potential employer for the first time.
Professional dress for a job fair and an interview are one in the same: a full suit. For ladies this can be a matching skirt or pants suit with understated make-up and jewelry. For men, a full suit, pressed shirt, tie, well groomed facial hair, and shined shoes.
Professional dress does not have to cost a fortune if you start looking well before the event. Visit the sale section of discount clothing retailers (Marshall’s, K&G, and T J Maxx) for deals on classic suits. You may be able to snag a professional look for less than $100.
So what doesn’t make the cut? Polo shirts; open toe shoes; missing suit jackets; men with no ties; ladies with trendy, tight-fitting dresses; untamed hair; excessive accessories, make-up and perfume/cologne. For the next career fair, dress to impress. And when in doubt, contact the Career Center for more information.
