Tips for Job Seekers

You just landed an interview for a manufacturing position. That’s great. Now, what should you wear? Business formal seems over the top, but you don’t want to look too casual either. 

Although a suit usually is go-to interview attire for both men and women, blue-collar jobs are a bit different. In most cases, you can make a positive first impression by following these guidelines. 

 

What to Wear

  • Dress pants or khakis; 
  • A tucked-in button-down shirt or blouse; 
  • A belt that matches your outfit; 
  • Polished dress shoes. 

Your interviewers may not expect you to wear a suit jacket/tie or blazer. However, this can be a nice touch. Also, if you are interviewing for an executive or supervisor position, you should dress up rather than down. In this situation, a suit may be the better choice.    

What NOT to Wear

  • Overly casual pants (joggers, yoga or wind pants); 
  • Shorts; 
  • Short skirts; 
  • T-shirts or statement tees; 
  • Sleeveless tops; 
  • Spaghetti straps; 
  • Low-cut, tight or revealing clothing; 
  • Tennis shoes or sneakers; 
  • Sandals; 
  • Flip flops; 
  • Outdated clothing (from your last interview ten years ago); 
  • Flashy colors, wild prints or unusual fabrics; 
  • Anything that is wrinkled, stained, ripped, or worn out. 

What about jeans? It depends. Dark dress jeans or khaki jeans paired with a dress shirt and shoes may be acceptable. But if you have any doubts, stick with dress pants instead. 

 

Additional Tips for Planning Your Outfit

Investigate the Dress Code 

Some businesses are more casual than others. If you don’t want to walk into the interview under or overdressed, do some detective work ahead of time. Check out the company website to see what most employees wear. Or, call the HR department and ask about the dress code. Calling may feel a bit awkward, but it can make you appear to be a more serious candidate too. 

 

Pay Attention to Accessories 

 Even if you have put together the perfect outfit, that tattered hat, frumpy coat, or ratty handbag will ruin the overall effect. Check out your entire outfit from head to toe. And, be careful not to overdo jewelry either. Excessive rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets can be very distracting. 

 

Don’t Forget About Personal Grooming 

Your appearance isn’t limited to your outfit. You need to look put together rather than like you just rolled out of bed. Make sure you dry, comb, and style your hair. (Wet hair makes it seem like you were running late.) Clip your nails. Men should shave or trim their beards, and women should wear light makeup. Finally, skip the perfume or cologne. Often, interviews take place in a smaller room. If the interviewer doesn’t like the smell, s/he might decide to cut the conversation short. Why risk it? 

 

Are You Searching for a Manufacturing Job?

United Talent Staffing Services can help you find and land the right position. Currently, we are looking for general laborers, production workers, material handlers, electricians, and maintenance technicians. Browse our available openings and start planning for your next interview today!