65% of managers said that clothes could be the deciding factor between two similar candidates. Also, 62% of managers said they wouldn’t hire someone if they dressed too casually. These statistics show the importance of dressing for success.
Did you know more than 50% of organizations allow workers to dress somewhat casually by wearing khakis and polo shirts or sweaters? Additionally, 13% let employees dress even more casually by wearing jeans and T-shirts.
Even though 33% of workers would rather have a casual dress code than an extra $5,000 in pay, workers still stress about trying to figure out what’s appropriate to wear. We are here to help.
When figuring out how to dress at work, take inspiration from your company’s leadership. It never hurts to dress for the job you want. If you are in a position where your boss wears a button-down and tie, make sure you do too!
Bonus Tip: Every tie color has a different meaning, so make sure you pick the right one! The way you dress and present yourself will show how serious you are about succeeding in the workplace.
55% of people’s initial perception of you is based on how you look, dress, and act. Even if you look great on paper, if you don’t dress appropriately, you will give the impression that you lack respect for the interviewer and the company.
Opt for business attire such as a suit, dress shirt, tie, or a professional blouse with dress pants or a skirt. Ensure your clothes are clean, well-fitted, and in good condition.
To get a good idea of exactly what you should wear on the first day is modeling after the individual who interviewed you. Did they wear a suit or button-down? More often than not, the best way to determine how to dress for your first day is to dress similarly to your interviewer.
Additionally, if those in charge come to work every day with just a polo and jeans, don’t come in with a suit unless asked. There is an unwritten rule that you should not dress above your superior’s style because it can come across as you thinking you are better than them.
Even if you can dress as casually as you want, make sure the clothes you choose are clean and wrinkle-free. Consider carrying a travel-sized wrinkle releaser spray for an on-the-go option. In addition, clean up regularly, including haircuts, shaving, etc.
Showing up each day with wrinkled clothes can give off a bad impression to your co-workers and managers. Especially if you meet with customers daily, having ironed clothes is essential. If you are the type of person that rushes out of the house every morning, there are alternatives to ironing.
A dress code doesn’t just encompass the clothes you wear. Be sure to pay attention to the accessories you choose and your grooming.
If you wear professional or conservative clothes from Mondays to Thursdays, don’t appear completely different on Fridays. Even if the company has “dress-down Fridays” or “casual Fridays,” you still have to look presentable enough.
A professional look demonstrates a high regard for oneself and your employer. How you carry yourself, your behavior, and your wardrobe style should all point to one goal: you want to succeed.