In a post-pandemic world, job candidates feel caught between suits and hoodies
NEW YORK (AP) — The matching blazer and pants Dani McEwen wore to a job interview at an insurance company felt like a smart choice, until she noticed most of the employees had on T-shirts and jeans. “The first thing that went through my mind was that I probably looked like I was trying way too hard and maybe seemed too uptight,” McEwen, a…
In recent years, the expectations surrounding interview attire have shifted significantly, leaving many job seekers uncertain about what to wear during their encounters with potential employers. Dani McEwen, a student at Baldwin Wallace University in Ohio, recounted her confusion after dressing in a matching blazer and pants for an insurance company interview only to find that most of the employees were dressed in casual attire, such as T-shirts and jeans.
She confessed that the stark contrast made her feel as though she appeared overly formal and possibly too serious.
The shift in dress codes, professionals assert, is a direct result of the changes brought about by the post-pandemic era. Christina Adamo, a personal stylist at Neiman Marcus, noted that the traditional notion of dressing in a suit for interviews is no longer the default expectation. "Everyone and everything have become slightly more relaxed," she explained, a sentiment echoed by staffing recruiters and stylists alike.
While it remains true that polished suits are still the preferred attire for executive positions, particularly in fields such as law and finance, job candidates are encouraged to research the company's culture and dress code before their interview. This can be achieved by exploring the organization's social media accounts or website to gain insights into how employees typically dress.
Experts advise dressing slightly more formally than what is seen on these platforms. For instance, if a company's online presence emphasizes innovation and a fresh approach, it is likely to have a more casual dress code.
Samantha Harman, a personal stylist and author, emphasized that the key to selecting an interview outfit is to feel confident in what one is wearing. This confidence is crucial, as it can positively influence one's performance during the interview. Additionally, job seekers should consider refreshing their style, especially if aiming for a senior role, to ensure that they appear modern and innovative.
Written by urgent.news from Associated Press's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — it may contain errors, so check the original before relying on it.
