DRESS FOR SUCCESS at a career fair, interview, or on the job

Comments from businesses in the College of Engineering and Architecture

What is your First Impression?

• If making a good first impression in a professional situation is important, this is NOT the look to choose
• Looks like he's getting ready to order pizza and play video games; This is not someone who is looking for a career
• OK for everyday wear
• Dirty shoes, untucked shirt, and pants are too baggy
• Casual, laid-back, not work-ready
• Too casual - going to hang out with friends


• Sloppy


• Not serious about looking for a job; Forgot about the career fair or interview
• Did not consider appearance to potential employers

Is this appropriate for a Career Fair?

• Although those you will meet know you are a student, this is still too casual
• Save it for a night out with your friends


• Tennis shoes and jeans make look a little inappropriate


• Too casual; Come on - make SOME effort!


• Career fair is only another task to check off the daily list


• Not suitable


• Couldn't take the applicant seriously


• Inappropriate - too casual
• Too casual; Shirt is good with slacks and something other than tennis shoes


• Not acceptable; Jeans and tennis shoes are not appropriate for career fair or interview

Is this appropriate for an Interview?

• Person is not taking the interview seriously or is not looking for an engineering position
• Definitely not suitable for a professional level interview; Facial hair must be cleanly groomed
• Not appropriate
• No good; Go home and change before you arrive for an interview
• Would wonder if he is serious about our job opportunity?


• Too casual


• Don't know if I could get past the outfit


• Shirt is ok, but wear slacks and a tie
• Too casual unless you are applying for a job at the mall
• Very inappropriate

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