For many students, the fall semester brings career fairs and interviews for internships and jobs. You may already have a schedule of events and interviews in your agenda, but how can you prepare to look the part? We know it can feel overwhelming to put together your look, so we are here to help you make this process a little easier.
Our Career Center for Development (CCD) is excited to launch the Gloria Jean Rosenthal Career Closet in Reynolds Hall this year. The Career Closet will be open to current students in need of professional business outfits for job and internship interviews and other professional development opportunities. We are able to provide you with an entire suit, free of charge, if you do not have access to one on your own so you can be dressed for success. Plus, the suit will be yours to keep. We want you to feel confident and a well-fitted, tailored-to-you suit can give you just that.
In the meantime, we have put together a few easy do’s and don’ts to ensure that you look the part for any academic occasion this year.
Do's
Dress the part: Find out what your interview requires in terms of a dress code. At times, it is better to be overdressed than underdressed. Phil Mauser, owner of Daniel’s of Morgantown, says “it’s important to dress the part so that you look like you belong.”
Be well-groomed: Being clean is more than just taking a shower. Traditionally, for men, this can be getting a haircut and maintaining your beard. For women, it’s choosing your makeup or nail care routine that matches your personality. You can get your nails done or not, just keep it simple and don’t try to be someone you're not.
Make sure your garments fit: A garment fitted to you will accent your best features and appear sharper – making you more confident in the stress of the interview.
Don’ts
Be too trendy: Sticking to a classic cut and well-fitting garment gives the best professional appearance and it won’t go out of style. Phil Mauser says, “dark, dressy and conservative is always better off.” If you want to work in your personality, men can try a pair of fun socks or a colorful pocket square. For women, adding color with your accessories, such as earrings or a necklace, can be just enough to give you that extra sparkle.
Wear the wrong shoes: You never know how long you will be on your feet, so remember that comfort is key to looking and feeling your best. For men, open toe shoes are out of the equation. Wear a classic dress shoe in a black or brown color. For women, a conservative high heel or flat shoe is also appropriate.
Wear revealing clothing: Revealing clothing is often seen as non-professional and can end up exposing too much to your professional co-workers. For women, wearing a professional dress with a removal blazer is a great option for not knowing how hot or cold you will be.
If you have a question about your professional attire or where to start, ask your adviser or a CCD member to help you out.
For more questions about our Career Closet, please email Kara within the CCD at kfazio@mail.wvu.edu.
SH and CT /08/28/22
CONTACT: Shelby Hudnall
Marketing Strategist
WVU John Chambers College of Business and Economics, Strategic Communications
Stoompa1@mail.wvu.edu
