Dressing for success still pays off

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My college freshman daughter couldn't understand why so many students came to classes dressed so slovenly. "It's like they plan to look bad - I don't get it!"I don't either. In any given situation, and "in every job interview", says Peter Yogt, MonsterTRAK Career Coach, "you're going to be judged, at least partially, by how you look," even when your professor could use a little help."But," Vogt adds, "how you look varies depending on your industry and the job you're interviewing for.""If you're applying for a technical position, you won't need a suit," says Carole Martin, author of Boost Your Interview IQ. "A collared shirt and khakis or slacks would work. Same goes for women - sweater or blouse and slacks or a skirt."Upgrade your dress if you're interviewing for a higher-level job. "You dress in the best clothes you have," says David Perry, managing director for Ottawa-based high tech recruiting firm Perry-Martel International. "No exceptions."For finance jobs, "full business professional attire is required and expected," adds Pamela Holland, COO for Brody Communications in Jenkintown, PA. At a government interview, "don't be flashy", says Holland. "But, a bit of color is OK, whether you're a man or a woman," says Kathryn Troutman, Monster Federal Career Coach. "For an HR interview, you must look professional and authoritative," adds Carole Martin. And, for sales, Martin continues, "Typically a suit is the uniform for a sales interview. After all, who would want to buy from a guy in a t-shirt and jeans?"Packaging includes the little things. "The details matter," says Mary Lou Andre, president of Needham, Mass.-based Organization By Design and author of "Ready To Wear: An Expert's Guide to Choosing and Using Your Wardrobe." "For example, shoes should be in excellent condition, as should totes and outerwear."You never get a second chance to make a good first impression. Making that impression is part of the selling process, in sales, in job searching, and in the classroom. Make a good impression, prepare, participate, get known, network, and demonstrate that you have passion for the work and can get the job done, in the job interview and in the classroom. Marvin Walberg is a job search coach. Contact him at mwalberg(at)bellsouth.net, marvinwalberg.blogspot.com, or PO Box 43056, Birmingham, AL 35243.