Dress for Success

Choose what fits the job

Look at the employer’s website or ask the recruiter what people typically wear. When unsure, choose clean, comfortable clothes one step more polished than the everyday workplace. Good fit, clean shoes, and neat grooming matter more than a costly outfit. Dress and grooming choices are personal; there is no single look that fits everyone.

• Office or customer-facing: A clean collared shirt, blouse, sweater, trousers or skirt, and tidy shoes can work well.
• Hands-on or field role: Choose neat, practical clothes and closed-toe shoes; follow any safety instructions.
• Video interview: Check your camera framing, lighting, background, sound, and clothing on screen the day before.

How to tie a simple four-in-hand knot

1. Drape the tie around your neck with the wide end longer than the narrow end.
2. Cross the wide end over the narrow end.
3. Wrap the wide end behind and across the front of the narrow end.
4. Bring the wide end up through the neck loop, then down through the front loop you just made.
5. Hold the narrow end and slide the knot up gently. Adjust until comfortable and centered.

Practice once the day before. A tie is only needed when it suits the job and feels right for you.

On interview day

• Confirm the time, time zone, address or video link, and who you are meeting.
• Bring a copy of your resume and a few questions about the role.
• Arrive or join a few minutes early. Silence notifications and put your phone away.
• Listen fully, answer with a real example, and ask for clarification when needed.
• Thank the interviewer and ask when you might hear about next steps.

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