Tips for Job Interview Dress: Avoid Certain Neckwear Such as Men's Novelty Neckties

So you’re going to a job interview and you’re wondering what to wear – something that will at least keep you on the playing field with the rest of the applicants. Well it is all about first impressions. You’ve already left the employment office with a first impression in the form of your resume, which lists your education, work history and at your option, your hobbies. Your appearance when you first enter the interview room serves as a second instant impression. Did you know that over 50% of another person’s perception of you is based on your dress code? And it will be drawn in under 60 seconds! So what to wear? Let’s talk about what not to wear: novelty ties.

Wear Non-Distracting Solid and Patterned Neckties

It’s all about matching and blending all the various parts of your attire in order to impart a got-it-together look. Job training coaches and fashion experts alike recommend dark suits matched with white or light color shirts, with all auxiliary accessories matching one another, such as your belt, shoes and socks in dark colors. This goes for men’s neckwear as well. Subtle foulard patterns, stripes, paisley and other understated geometric designs often found in designer neckties are ideal. The reasoning behind this recommendation is that they will blend in with the rest of the outfit. They will complement and unify the entire look of the outfit, from head to toe. The final ensemble should not be non-distracting. Wear white socks and you distract. Wear a bright belt and you bring attention to your midsection rather than your face. Wear a cartoon character necktie and you really draw attention. In fact making a mistake picking out an appropriate tie is an even worse indiscretion because of its location. A potential employer may not notice your light toned socks when you first walk in, but he or she surely will notice your tie, standing up or sitting down. The mantra is nothing distracting. Just stay clear of anything which stands out. And as mentioned already, you can share you interests on your resume, not on yourself.

Stick with Professional Business Wear & Leave Novelty Ties for Casual Social Events

Most people consider novelty neckties casual wear, this including your potential employer, who wants to see a sampling of what you can be expected to be seen wearing when on the job. Besides, there is nothing casual about the interview process, about hiring the right person to contribute to the success of their company in a competitive business market. Wearing a novelty tie demonstrates a lackadaisical nature and a total lack of respect, professionalism and seriousness for the job you are vying for. Most all interviewers would consider such a selection in poor taste and many even be offended by your choice. In their minds they will wonder what they can expect from you as an employee if you are already exhibiting such poor judgment from the get go. You must be on as much a level playing field as the other applicants, and choosing any novelty tie would create an instant disadvantage.

Conclusion

From the start you have taken the right steps to present a polished application package. The second step is a polished look. The third will be the interview itself. Avoid novelty ties and you will be two-thirds of the way toward landing the job of your dreams.