Looking for your dream job?
Bring out the briefcase and the tailored suit. Hide those tattoos. Take out the lip, nose, tongue and eyebrow jewelry to prepare yourself for the corporate world.
Companies seeking students serious about their careers look for a professionally dressed candidate, which means no ear piercing, tattoos or colorful hairstyles. And definitely no blue jeans or t-shirts at a job interview, while shopping for a blue, gray or black suit is a must.
Journalism and engineering students were dressed in their best suits during the week of Oct. 13-17 for career job fairs held on campus. Suits for both men and women are appropriate dress when meeting with corporate recruiters.
Danita Douglas, industrial engineering supervisor at General Motors in Saginaw, was invited to meet with engineering students at the job fair. Douglas commented on the appearance of candidate’s professional appearance.
“The basics would be simple, neat and appropriate,” Douglas said. “Don’t be overly dressed with embellishments or loud and boisterous clothing — keep it simple. Wear your basic colors, like blue, black and neutrals.”
Douglas said you want the total package to shine as a presentation. Your appearance should match what your resume shows to the employer.
“The rule of thumb is to dress one up,” said Nanette McCleary Shaw, university counselor in Career Services. “Whatever you are going to wear on the job you need to be conservative. When in doubt, wear a suit.”
Shaw said to dress comfortably because it affects your confidence level.
Casey Rue, civil engineering advisor in the department of engineering, advised that women going on interviews should not dress up like they are going out to a club, wearing high heels and short skirts.
“Going to a cocktail lounge versus an interview are two different things,” Rue said.
Career Services has presented workshops throughout the month titled: “How to Land an Internship,” “Dress for Success,” and “Backpack to Briefcase: Making the Transition.” Workshops continue through the beginning of November.
On Nov. 7, the Michigan Collegiate Job Fair will take place at the Burton Manor in Livonia from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The job fair is sponsored by the Michigan Association of Colleges and Employers and Eastern Michigan University. Wayne State students are encouraged to attend this important event.
Chad Austin, an assistant director at the Career Planning and Placement for the School of Business Administration, held the workshop on “Dress for Success” offering helpful advice and recommendations for students in dressing appropriately for the interview.
Why a suit?
According to Austin, there are general guidelines for men and women when transitioning from student to professional. In his presentation, a professional image projects confidence. Thinking in terms of being a professional shows a sign of respect for yourself and your potential employer, it is the cultural norm. Students are expected to wear a suit. The interviewer’s attention should be focused on what you say and your qualifications, not on what you are wearing.
And don’t forget to turn off those cell phones. If your ring tone is grossly inappropriate, that also detracts from your professional image.
Other suggestions presented by Austin included portraying a professional business image such as not wearing strong perfume or deodorants, no dangle earrings or excessive jewelry. Apparel should be clean and neatly pressed, and fit well. Have a neatly-trimmed hair cut.
“Remember that self-confidence is your primary goal when selecting your professional attire,” Austin said.
Less is more
Keep your looks simple and professional. After landing that job, you can wear a more relaxed look when you become accustomed to the work environment.
Austin wrapped up the informative presentation with a helpful question.
“What is too much? Anything that makes someone do a double-take.”
Quinton Felder, a junior in marketing, attended the presentation. “It is helpful to obtain information in regards to dressing for success,” said Felder.
Students who have attended the Career Planning and Placement workshops received a free raffle ticket to win a $300 suit from Macy’s. Raffle tickets will be given out at future workshops. The drawing will take place in early November.
The School of Business Administration building has schedules posted of workshops offered throughout the month.
A workshop on “How to Land an Internship” will be offered to students in the Faculty Administration Building on Oct. 28 from 2-3 p.m. and on Nov. 12 from 1:30-2:30 p.m.
The workshop focuses on the methods used to land an internship. Kimberly Streeter of Career Services will give the presentation.
