Fashion Tips: Dress for success

Mar 6 2009 By Julia Cumming

In the current economic climate, so many people are facing the daunting prospect of returning to the highly competitive job market, maybe after being with the same company for many years. Although getting an interview is a positive opportunity, it can fill you with all sorts of insecurities about how to make a good impression.

In business, image matters. Job interviews and other high pressure meetings can be stressful enough but you can be one step ahead of the game if you make a positive first impression.

Think about the last time you met someone for the first time. Do you remember what they were saying or do you remember more about their body language and what they were wearing? Research has shown that within the first 30 seconds of meeting someone, 55% of impact is based upon appearance and behaviour, 38% is the voice/accent and only 7% of what we actually say will have made an impression!

When you look good, you feel good, you are more confident, you stand straighter, smile more and even speak with more conviction. All this is especially critical when going for a job interview, networking, meeting new clients or giving an important business presentation.

Obviously, the key thing to remember in dressing the part for an interview is that it must be <B>appropriate<B> to the industry you are seeking employment within. So do your research!