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?

• Not seriously looking for an internship or a job; Very casual
• It would appear the person forgot about the career fair or interview if someone was dressed like this, not at all prepared
• First impression for a date - fine; First impression for an employer - too casual
• It is a nice looking outfit for class or an evening at the movies, but it does not give a professional impression


• Young adult, jeans are nice - no holes


• Probably wears similar clothes most days; Nicely dressed, with good appearance for going to class


• Very stylish and youthful however; not suitable for an interview
• Would be a fun outfit for a weekend night out
• Trendy, casual, every day wear


• Stylish, not professional
• Good for going out or to a movie
• Too casual

Is this appropriate for a Career Fair?

• Too casual for the career fair; While I would rather see and talk with her than not, my impression would be that the career fair was just another task to do that day
• For someone seeking an internship or interview for a position after graduation, I would recommend more formal, professional attire
• Not horrible, as most firms would expect to be meeting students, not seasoned professionals; But it can appear too casual - and why take that chance?


• Would probably suggest khakis or some other type of pants


• Not serious about getting a job


• Would have the impression that she is just at the career fair to pass time, not seriously job seeking
• Need to dress up more


• No, I wouldn't think this person is serious about starting their career


• Not appropriate; Much too casual
• Shirt is ok, but should be paired with dress slacks


• Not serious about finding employment


• Not appropriate for career fair; Both the shirt and jeans are too casual, not at all professional

Is this appropriate for an Interview?

• This outfit does not present a professional look and, depending on the interviewer, could be much too casual; It would be fine for casual Fridays once you are hired - but not for an interview
• Not appropriate at all


• Absolutely inappropriate attire for an interview
• Way too casual for an interview; Would give the impression "what you see is what you get" - Shouldn't make a strong statement by being underdressed for an interview, or that this meeting isn't that important
• Inappropriate for a professional level position
• Absolutely not; We are a business casual company

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