Working Knowledge A Monthly Column about Life on the Job

By Elisa F. Topper American Libraries Columnist Elisa F. Topper is a career consultant in the Chicago area. Contact her at working@ala.org. Column for May 2003

As a paraprofessional just finishing up my MLS, I am faced with a job-search process that will require me to go out on interviews and attend the next ALA Annual Conference. Since my day job for the past several years allowed me to wear casual clothes, and because most of my earnings have gone toward tuition and school expenses, I have a large hole in my professional wardrobe, but limited funds with which to fill it. How can I quickly—yet economically—bring my professional image up to speed?

We often hear “You can’t judge a book by its cover,” but when it comes to projecting a professional image—whether in a job interview, at a conference, or during a meeting presentation—the adage no longer applies. Research shows it only takes 10 seconds for someone to make an assumption about you based on your appearance.
However, you don’t need to spend a fortune on a complete wardrobe overhaul to make a good first impression. What employers are looking for in an applicant is someone who projects a professional appearance, which includes—but is not limited to—attire that will draw attention to you, not to itself. The tips below will help you dress for success and devote more time preparing for the real substance of the interview.

• Check the yellow pages for local apparel consignment shops where you might be able to find a suitable outfit at a less-than-new price. Also consider discount or outlet stores such as T. J. Maxx or Marshalls.
  
• For women, invest in a traditional business outfit—either a suit or tailored dress in a conservative, solid color such as blue, black, or gray. For men, choose a dark suit with a white shirt and conservative tie. The favorite color of Americans is blue, which conveys trust, calm, and confidence.
  
• Select attire that is conservative over trendy or faddish clothes.
  
• Shoes should be closed-toed for women and moderate for men. Most importantly, make sure shoes are freshly polished. Socks for men should be the color of the suit pants; women should wear nude color stockings.
  
• Invest in a briefcase without designer logos, and above all—no backpacks!
  
• Go for the highest quality that you can afford.
  

Once you have a great outfit that makes you feel good, confident, and professional, don’t neglect the details:

• If you wear jewelry or makeup, keep it minimal.
  
• Don’t wear cologne or perfume: Many people have allergies and do not appreciate having to sniffle through an interview.
  
• Get your hair cut or styled at least a week beforehand so you don’t have to deal with any “surprises.”
  
• Make sure your hands are clean, nails trimmed, and, for women who wear nail polish, choose a neutral color—no “fire engine red” nails.
  
• Check your entire outfit, including shoes and socks, a few days before your interview to make sure everything is clean and needs no repairs.
  
• Practice wearing your outfit so that you feel comfortable in it and won’t be distracted during the interview.
  
• Don’t forget your best—and least expensive—fashion accessory: A smile!
  

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ASK THE EXPERT

Vicki Burger, human resources manager at Ela Area Public Library in Lake Zurich, Illinois, offers the following advice:
1. Look professional and be sure to check your appearance in a full-length mirror.
2. Offer a firm handshake.
3. Make and maintain eye contact.
4. Speak clearly, precisely, and persuasively.
5. Listen carefully and skillfully.
6. Read body language by learning to interpret nonverbal messages.
7. Project poise and use deep-breathing exercises to calm yourself.

(c) Copyright 2003 American Library Association