In business you only get one chance to make a first impression and it will take just 7 seconds for your interviewer to form that first impression of you.

Having a confident appearance at a job interview not only helps you present an excellent image to your prospective employer, but also signals you have the right attributes and attitude for the job you’re applying for.

Whatever your budget your choices when it comes to interview attire are endless, but whilst lots of choice can be exciting, it can also be overwhelming and confusing, especially when it’s so crucial that the first impression you make is a good one.

Here Anna de Vere, Director of Corporate Training and Development at Colour Me Beautiful gives you her top tips to help you dress for interview success…

Get Your Colours Right
Getting your colours right is the first step for a positive personal image in the workplace. Wearing the wrong colours can make you look tired and unapproachable whilst the right ones will make you look energised and positive. For example, if your natural colouring is light (fair hair, pale skin and pale eyes) a black suit with a white shirt will instantly take you over, whilst a grey or navy suit with a soft white shirt will work in harmony with your colouring making you instantly more approachable.

Dress Appropriately
What style of clothes to wear for your interview will vary depending on the industry, but you should always be groomed and smart. Remember not to flash too much flesh! Skirts/dresses that are on the knee or just below are best and never expose your midriff. Look for inspiration on your prospective employer’s website for what to wear.

Make-Up Know-How
Research has shown that women who wear make-up look younger, earn more and get promoted more quickly, so don’t forget about it when preparing for your interview. A natural daytime make-up will help give an overall professional and polished appearance, if you don’t want to wear much a light base, slick of mascara, blush and lipstick are all you need to complete your look.

Pay Attention To Details
Simple things like chipped nail polish can be very off-putting, even if the rest of your look is well put together. Make sure your nails are short, clean and either natural or freshly painted, your shoes are clean and your tights are ladder-free (it’s always a good idea to have a spare pair in your bag, just in case!)

For more information on dressing for success in the workplace please contact Anna de Vere, Director of Corporate Training and Development on 07786 492 884. Alternatively visit www.cmbimage.co.uk  or www.colourmebeautiful.co.uk