WHAT TO WEAR TO AN INTERVIEW: Different industries = different styles

CORPORATE COUTURE

Banking, finance, telecommunication and other corporate industries are comfortable with the above looks. Something black or grey is neutral with toned down accessories.  Add some colour with a bright handbag.

NGO / AID AGENCIES FASHION

NGO's, aid agencies and other less corporate industries are open to a less formal but smart look.  Muted yellows and burgundy are less intimidating and work well especially as work involves dealing with government agencies where colour is common in the form of kitenge or other ethnic material.

Colourful shirts are an alternative to wearing jackets for such interviews but should be silk, chiffon, lace or well textured materials. Bright colours are great as many aid agencies deal with depressing humanitarian issues.

SCHOOL TEACHER / UNIVERSITY LECTURER

If you are looking to work in education, prepare yourself for the interview with simple, structured and sensible clothes. This industry is subtle with a focus on learning and not on fashion.

MEDIA FASHION

For those with interviews in publishing houses, television studios, radio stations or magazines a more casual smart look is appropriate.  Looking trendy but smart at an interview will most likely make the panel feel that you have what it takes to keep up with the times.

MEDIA FASHION @ INTERNATIONAL LEVELS

For interviews at international fashion magazines, it's very important to wear nothing but designer labels from head to toe. To save on costs, borrow from friends and family. If a magazine is suited to only working with designer labels then they wouldn't expect less from their employees.

EVENT MANAGEMENT STYLE

 Interviewing for contract work at an events company? Dress simple but accessorize.  Events companies are action packed and those running them often dress comfortably as work includes running around venues and moving equipment.

MUSIC INDUSTRY LOOKS

Interviewing for a record label or for a job as a VJ on live TV?  Rock the look at your interview. It's all about being egdy, avant garde and keeping it black.  Your clothes and your personality have to have the same appeal!

SAFARI SHOWCASE

If you are applying for work in an office of a safari company, a safari dress couldn't be more stylish.

If you are hoping to get chosen for work in a safari camp or lodge as a camp manager, bear in mind that they usually take couples, then the above clothes are more than suitable for the interview.

SPORT SPECIAL

Look sporty if you have an interview at a gym or sports club.  A full tracksuit as opposed to workout clothes is appropriate.

CREATIVE DESIGN

Interviewing at an architect's office? Then a well cut taupe or brown/grey suit is appropriate. Architects  have a no nonsense approach to work and like structure and form. Minimise on jewelry and make up so you don't distract them from taking you seriously.

If you are interviewing for a graphic design post, then remember to bring out your creative style.  A dress with stripes or a frill shows that you have flair and are willing to stand out from the crowd.

SELF EMPLOYED LOOKS

Business owners look for candidates that find it easy to learn.  Wearing studious clothes to an interview will give them the confidence that you are willing to listen.  They tend to like employing graduates who are energetic and have no history of unchangeable work habits that they have picked up from previous places of employment.

No need to panic anymore!It's now up to you to co ordinate the right look for the industry you are being interviewed for.

RELATIONSHIP TIPS

The Judas Kiss signified Jesus's final betrayal before he was crucified. Don't let a friend become your 'Judas': for a kiss on the cheek can cover up a multitude of sins.