The Best Colors To Wear For An Interview

Job hunting is competitive…on average, over 100 people apply for a single position, but only 20-percent land an interview. When that opportunity comes, being prepared is key and every detail matters. Even your outfit choice matters, down to the colors you wear!

Enjoy Mondays founder Travis Lindemoen suggests you “dress for the job you want,” noting that creative roles may allow for more colorful attire, while formal jobs call for a polished, conservative look. Choosing the right colors can help send the right message, so what should you wear or avoid? Let’s break it down.

The Best Colors To Wear

• Navy: One of the most classic neutral colors akin to black and white without the monotone color feel. Navy “is a versatile color that can be dressed up or down, making it a good choice for interviews in a variety of industries,” Lindemoen says.
• Black: Ol’ tried and true, you could never go wrong with a black fit for an interview no matter the setting. “Black is another classic color that is often seen as being professional and sophisticated,” Lindemoen says.
• Gray: Still in the neutral area, grays whether light or dark in hue can be associated with sophistication as well as “professionalism and stability,” notes Jeff Herzog, President of job recruiting firm FPC National.
• Brown: Warm and stable, brown has become the new go-to fashion staple for workwear again with more shade and undertone ranges than ever.

 

Colors to Avoid

 

• Red: Definitely the color to make a statement but maybe keep it on the DL (downlow) so you don’t blind the interviewer with this aggressive hue.
• Orange: So zesty, so bright, so energetic and…so not the place for it. Orange can be overpowering to the senses making it come across as unprofessional.
• Yellow: Citrus colors are being attacked on this list but within reason…Yellow is such a cheerful color and we love the positive effects it has on your mental health but in an interview setting the standout color could convey immaturity and make you seem unprofessional.
• Green: You might think a beautiful neutral green look could be just the right medium between fun and professional but maybe not in a formal workplace interview. Lindemoen says, “Green is a color that is often seen as being too casual or relaxed. It is not the best choice for interviews in more formal industries.”

 

Source: Parade

photo: GETTY