Over the years I have had the honor of doing live broadcasts at job fairs for a number of different employers around Sioux Falls. Many times I have been astounded at what some job-seekers chose to wear for their interviews!

Yes, I know that many employers allow casual dress, but when you're applying for a job, isn't it still important to look your best for the initial interview?

That was something I learned from my parents and in school and it stuck. I would never have dreamed of showing up in anything less than something neat, clean and closer to formal than casual, no matter what job I was applying for, in radio or out.

That has not been the case with many of the job applicants I have observed. Ripped, dirty, low-slung jeans (some belted at the knees with underwear showing above them) have been the wardrobe of choice for many job seekers. Inappropriately revealing clothing has been a choice for many female applicants. Logo t-shirts and sweatshirts are another popular look with baseball hats topping off the mess.

My most memorable outfit appeared on a twenty-something woman who came to her interview dressed in an outfit my friend Jeff would describe as "trying to stuff 10 pounds of sugar into a five pound bag!"

She was sporting an extremely tight, very low cut, cleavage-baring black and hot pink crop top with a black micro-mini skirt which barely covered her ass-ets. She was also wearing incredibly high-heeled platform shoes which she could hardly walk in and almost fell off of as she went in for her interview.

I wasn't the only one with a surprised expression on my face. It included the woman who was interviewing her.

With all of this in mind I was wondering if "dressing for success" was even an important factor anymore when pursuing a job. Apparently so.

CareerBuilder has come out with a list of 5 tips for the job-seeker going to an in-person interview.

  • Dress for the environment, but don't go too casual. If everyone is dressed in shorts and flip flops and you show up in a business suit, you may not come across as the right fit. Dress according to the environment, but always look polished. Wear a suit where appropriate or at the very least a nice pair of pants or a skirt and collared shirt or blouse.
  • Stick with neutrals.You can't go wrong with navy, black, brown or gray. You can pair any of these colors with a classic white button-down shirt or a splash of a more vibrant color.
  • Tailor your outfit. Clothing that is too tight or revealing can leave an unfavorable impression. Clothing that is too loose can make you look like a kid wearing your dad's suit. Make sure your interview apparel complements your shape.
  • Don't distract the interviewer. Wacky ties, loud patterns and oversized jewelry can cause the interviewer to spend more time wondering about your outfit than your skill set. Solids or small patterns are your best bet for interview attire.
  • Pay attention to details. Make sure your shoes are polished, your clothes are wrinkle-free and your nails are manicured. Be mindful of your choice of belt, tie clip, hosiery, socks and jewelry.

For more advice on seeking jobs in a very tight job market, click here.

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