Look the Part: Thoughts on "Rejected: Readers Reveal Interview Don'ts" by Christina Binkley

They say don’t judge a book by its cover, but your hiring manager DOES. Your interview is a first impression you don’t want to leave to chance. So hide those plunging necklines and dress the part! No matter what industry you are in, you should pay attention to how you are dressing for the interview. What you wear can give off a multitude of messages from: “I am professional and want this position” or “I look like a college student who is late to class”, or “I once was a professional…in the 80’s.” You need to care because you want the message you are sending to be positive and professional. The Wall Street Journal recently featured a great article on dressing the part by Christina Binkley. She finds out how hiring managers are thinking about your ensemble and how to improve upon your interview look. I strongly suggest reading this article:
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120052696806895717.html

Here are some points GrantProSearch would like to emphasize for dressing and grooming for the interview.

1. Sit up STRAIGHT!
This will keep your energy up, your confidence high and your voice projected.

2. Hair Styles and Cuts Matter
Men: Keep it well groomed, styled and out of your face. Getting a fresh hair cut before the interview never hurts
Women: Keep your hair controlled. Make sure it is either pulled back or out of your face. And do not play with your hair. As well, make sure your hair style is up to date ( no 80’s bouffant bobs)

3. NO piercings!
And also cover up those tattoos. We know they are what makes you an individual, but they send off the wrong message to the business professional. For women, pierced ears (one on each side) with small earrings are just fine.

4. Rule of Thumb: Buy Quality when you can. Your suits will hang better (less alterations) and your shoes will look classic.