University of Wisconsin - Green Bay, "Connecting learning to life." Home Search Departments Students Faculty & Staff Library A to Z University of Wisconsin - Green Bay UW-Green Bay Phoenix
Career Services at UW-Green Bay
"Dedicated to the individual development of students and meeting the recruitment needs of employers."
Interviewing
Our Mission    Green Bullet     Office Hours    Green Bullet     Our Staff     Green Bullet     Site Index     Green Bullet     Contact Us     Green Bullet    UW-Green Bay Home

Students Main Page

Alumni Main Page

Faculty & Staff Main Page

Visitors Main Page

 

Professional Attire
You've done your homework.  You've updated your resume. Now you aren't sure what you should wear to a job fair or an upcoming interview.  Here are some guidelines to help you make a great first impression.
 

What Should I Wear??

 

First impressions are very important to employers, so the  familiar saying, "You never get a second chance to make a first impression" couldn't ring more true.  However, that doesn't mean that you should skip an interview or other networking event just because you don't have a suit. Here are a few tips and resources to help you dress appropriately:

 

MEN:

  • Wear nice dress pants that are clean and pressed with a buttoned up shirt and tie.

  • Choose a solid-color button down shirt that is wrinkle-proof.

  • If you can't afford a suit, purchase a single-breasted, black, two-button blazer that will go with several of your dress pants.

  • Flat-front style pants in a solid color are a safe bet.

  • Black leather laced shoes are another "must have" that can be worn with a variety of outfits.

  • Not sure how to properly tie a tie?  This link on the Brooks Brothers website takes you step-by-step through the process!  

WOMEN:

  • If you don't own a suit, you could wear a skirt (knee length or below) with a sweater set or nice blouse.

  • Avoid heels unless you need the height and are comfortable wearing (and walking!) in them. Remember - closed-toed shoes.

EVERYONE:

  • Skip the jeans -- these are not considered appropriate even for "business casual" events!

  • Make sure your attire fits well and is appropriate. "No crack - front or back!"

  • NO bare midriffs (i.e. no belly should be showing!)

  • Do not wear open-toed shoes or flip flops.

If you are looking for ideas before purchasing your first suit, check out this article that appeared in the Green Bay Press Gazette, "Buying a suit for the 1st time?  Pros explain the process" by Orlando R. Lorenzo from the Gannett News Service.   Also, stop by Career Services to see our display window and bulletin board about appropriate attire.

Here are some additional tips about overall appearance:

  • Dress professionally, feel good about the way you look; err on the side of being overdressed instead of  underdressed; avoid soiled, wrinkled or worn clothing.

  • Use make-up moderately

  • No strong perfumes, colognes or aftershaves

  • Well trimmed hair, mustaches and beards

  • Don't overdo use of jewelry

  • Don't forget to shine shoes, clean fingernails, clean glasses

By taking a few simple attire tips, you can make certain you make a great first impression! 

In Need of Interview Attire?
Here are two Green Bay community resources that provide professional attire to those in need:

Green Bay Men's Closet
Free work clothing available for men.
1125 West Mason Street, Green Bay
Phone: (920) 884-2950 - Call in Advance
Hours: Tuesday 2-5 p.m., Thursday 2-5 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. - Noon

YWCA Women's Closet
Free work appropriate clothing for women.
230 S. Madison Street, Green Bay
Phone: (920) 432-5581 - Call in Advance
Hours: Tuesday 1-4 p.m.; Wednesday 3-6 p.m.
Provide two forms of I.D.; one I.D. with picture.
 

Dress to Impress: A Guide 
Developed by the Apparel, Merchandising, Design and Textiles Department and Career Services at  Washington State University.

Articles and Resources:

Our Mission    Green Bullet     Office Hours    Green Bullet     Our Staff     Green Bullet     Site Index     Green Bullet     Contact Us     Green Bullet    UW-Green Bay Home

UW-Green Bay Home      Last revised: June 25, 2008

     ©2004 All rights reserved
     Career Services at the University of Wisconsin - Green Bay
     2420 Nicolet Drive, Student Services 1600
     Green Bay, Wisconsin 54311-7001
     Phone: (920) 465-2163  Fax: (920) 465-2920
     Site design & maintenance: Career Services Web Developer