You’re a teenager getting ready to interview for a summer job, part-time job or internship. Maybe this is your very first job interview. It is imperative that you make a good first impression and what you choose to wear will set the tone for the interview discussion that follows. There is a good chance that employers make their decision after just one interview so picking the right outfit is critical to making the best impression.
So where do you start? Below are guidelines for picking the right professional look based on the type of job for which you are interviewing. The end of the article includes interview tips so that you feel fully prepared for your interview.
1) What is the company’s dress code for employees?
Office Based
If you are interviewing for a job, in an office environment, ask your point of contact about the company dress code. You can sometimes determine this information on the potential employer’s company’s website. If the company dress code is business casual and employees regularly wear dark jeans and a polo shirt or blouse, you should aim for dressing “one level above” the company dress which in this case would be “business” The chart below details the clothing choices typically associated with each dress code category. For teenage girls this might include: dressy jumpsuits, dress pants or a skirt with a nice blouse or sweater. For teenage boys a good option could include dress pants, a button-down shirt and dress shoes. The days of wearing a formal suit for any interview, no matter what, are largely behind us. Many companies have adopted a more relaxed dress code and it is important than you both align with the company culture and look professional.
If you are interviewing for a job that is more formal in nature – such as a bank clerk, the dress code may be more formal in nature. If this is the case, opt for more formal attire that might include a blazer for both teenage girls and boys or even a full suit, if you already have one. Most teenagers have limited funds so by all means don’t rush out to buy a business suit just for an interview unless it is absolutely required per the hiring manager. Even if that is the case, try and borrow one from a friend or family member or even check out local thrift shops. Many people, including myself gave away much of their more formal clothing after covid.
Retail/Restaurant/Camps
If you are interviewing for a non office-based job such as with a retailer at the mall or fast casual restaurant position, employees may wear more casual attire or even a uniform. Even if that is the case, you still want to present a professional polished look during your interview and therefore aim for clothing choices that fall within the “Business Casual” section of the chart above, at a minimum. No jeans. For teenage boys casual clothing might include a polo shirt / button down shirt and slacks (dress pants) and dress shoes. Clean, simple sneakers in good condition can work for the most casual employment environments. For teenage girls, outfit ideas for interviews might include a sweater / blouse / dress shirt and dress pants. It is a good idea to avoid open-toed shoes or sandals as many retail and restaurant environments require closed toed shoes. Plus, close-toed shoes tend to have more of a professional appearance.
2) Keep the focus on your credentials, not your clothing.
While what you wear helps make a good impression, ultimately you want the interviewer to be focused on your interview answers that detail your experience and goals. The best way to do this is to avoid making any distracting clothing, accessory, color or pattern choices. Avoid the following:
- Crop tops
- Hats
- Jeans
- Avoid too much makeup
- Clothing with logos or words
- Sneakers if interviewing for an office-based job
- Jewelry that is overly large, clunky or makes noises when you move
- Shorts
- Sweatshirts
- T-shirts
- Tank tops
- Anything “mini” as in miniskirts, mini dresses
- Neon or overly loud colors. Neutral colors are generally a smart choice
Keep in mind that many of the above items may be allowed for the on-the-job dress code but during the interview process, different rules apply. The goal is to make a great first impression and show up to your interview looking like the professional that we know you are!
3) Interview Tips
Now that you have picked the perfect outfit for the interview, let’s review interview tips. Your answers to questions, and how you carry yourself, are typically most important for making a lasting impression and hopefully landing you the job. Be sure and consider the following:
- If a job description was made available during the application process, give it another read the day of the interview so that the job responsibilities are fresh in your mind.
- Keep your cell phone tucked away. My recommendation is to leave it in your car to avoid any calls or text messages you could receive during the interview. You’ll have a lot on your mind the day of the interview and very well could forget to put your phone on silent mode. If you choose to bring your phone inside to the interview, make sure the phone is on silent and keep it in a purse or pocket during the entire interview.
- If you are seated when the interviewer comes out to meet you, stand up, make direct eye contact and greet the individual by name. “Hi Alice, nice to meet you.”
- No gum chewing during the interview. Totally fine to accept a glass of water if offered or bring your own if you feel you may need it.
- Try to use the interviewer’s name a few times throughout the interview. This alone will set you apart from 99% of the competition. “That’s a great question, Mark. I feel like I would be a good addition to the Bank One team because…”
- Demonstrate strong body language throughout the interview. Sit up straight and keep your hands either on the table or in your lap to avoid touching your face or hair as nervous habits. Keep your attention and eyes focused on the interviewer. No fidgeting.
- Smile and don’t be afraid to show your personality throughout the discussion. People hire people after all!
Even if you put your best foot forward and are perfectly dressed for the occasion and follow all of the interview tips above, keep in mind that you won’t get every single job for which you interview. That is just life and happens to everyone at some point. Your job is to show up prepared, professional and ready to give it your best shot. Control what you can control and leave the rest up to the universe. Also, a “no” today from an employer that really interests you, could be a “yes” down the road so don’t be discouraged to apply again at a later time.
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