Guidelines for Men on Dressing To Impress for Job Interviews

An executive at a Fortune 500 company once told me that he changed his mind on the decision to hire a job candidate when, at their third meeting, over dinner, the young man in question salted his food before tasting it. The executive said that this behavior indicated to him a personality likely to make hasty decisions, without first evaluating all of the circumstances and options.

A bit harsh, perhaps. Yet it goes right to the heart of the interview process, in which impeccable credentials and sterling references can be trumped in 60 seconds by an unsatisfactory first impression. Indeed, sometimes years of valuable experience are no match for a careless gesture, limp handshake, or poor wardrobe choice.

That's why it's crucial to make sure that the first impression you make on a prospective employer during an interview is not prejudiced by your appearance. This week, we will focus on selecting the appropriate men's clothing for such an occasion. (Ladies, we'll get to you next week.)

Guys, it's important to dress your best for an interview. Whether you are applying to be a forest ranger or a financial adviser, you should not adopt the dress code of your potential employer until you are an employee. Plan to wear a traditional suit to your interview.

When selecting your suit, consider color, style, and fabric. For the ultimate in professionalism, select a conservative charcoal grey or navy blue single-breasted suit, in a smooth fabric and solid color or fine pinstripe. A two- or three-button jacket with side vents should do the trick for a position on Wall Street, while you will be safe adding slightly more fashion flair for a position in, say, marketing or design. For the latter, don a suit in earthy brown or dark olive green tones, adding a touch of pizzazz with a textured fabric.

No matter the style, the suit must fit well. Even a $5,000 suit won't look good if it isn't tailored properly. A suit should feel comfortable, and should not pull across the chest or restrict your movement. The jacket collar should lie smoothly over your shoulders and across your back.

Finally, don't forget the accessories! Shoes and belts should be in tip-top shape, without scuff marks or visible signs of wear. Clothes don't necessarily make the man, but sometimes they do get the job!

Dear Jordan:

Is it acceptable to wear brown shoes to an interview?

- Paul, Staten Island

Dear Paul:

Brown shoes are great for many occasions, but your best bet for an interview is a pair of black leather shoes - and a matching belt.

Dear Jordan:

I've just graduated from college and I only own one suit. I am about to start the interview process, and was wondering if it's okay to wear the same suit to a second interview.

- Toby, Jersey City

Dear Toby:

While I am generally an advocate of making clothes go the extra mile, in this case I would suggest that you bite the bullet and buy yourself another suit. You will get plenty of use out of a second suit, and will be grateful you have two to choose from when the third interview rolls around. Good luck!

Ms. Speer is the senior editor of an apparel business magazine. Send workplace and corporate fashion questions to styleforsuccess@aol.com.