Wednesday, December 17, 2008

Dress for Success

Interviews always bring about a difficult question: what am I going to wear? As a first impression happens in the first three seconds you meet someone, it is imperative to look the best possible at first glance. My mom has always told me what was best to wear to interviews, but oftentimes I like to spice what she says up with a trendier look. But what is professional and what is unprofessional?


Dressed for success! Charlotte with her two sisters and mom at the 2008 Celebration of Excellence. Charlotte received the 2008 Outstanding CAFNR Freshman award, recognizing her involvement in the college and community.

At the Agriculture Future of America Leaders Conference I attended in November, Sara Rogers (who works for the Mall of America) presented a workshop called “Providing Wardrobe Skills for Life.” Sara was so insightful and taught us how to change and update our wardrobes while on a budget. Here are some of her tips:

· Consider your lifestyle and all the hats you wear. As a college student walking on campus, I love having dressy flats for interviews so I do not have to worry about breaking a heel or ruining my heels for an on-campus interview.
· Select a base color. It is great to go with a more neutral color as a base such as navy, brown, or black. These colors look professional and are not flashy and too trendy. Then use the brighter colors to spruce up the final look (such as wearing a red or hot pink shirt under a black suit).
· Go back to basics for accessories/makeup. No big earrings, bulky necklaces, or heavy lipstick or eye makeup needs to be worn for an interview. However, pantyhose will a suit always smoothes lines and covers flaws. Being classy is of utmost importance to look sophisticated.

While these are just a few of Sara’s tips I learned and hope to apply, she has much more help available for the wardrobe-challenged at her website. Also, Stephanie Chipman with CAFNR Career Services can also help you with any questions you might have for interview attire and dressing for success.

-Charlotte Jackson
Sophomore, Agricultural Education