One of the hardest questions to answer before going to a job interview is what to and what not to wear to an interview. Fortunately, there is a common goal we’d like to pursue – dressing properly will help provide the great first impression we would all need.
The truth is that what you wear to an interview will have a tremendous impact on determining whether you can land your dream job in Malaysia. If you aren’t dressed professionally or suitably, you will be perceived as being insincere the minute you appear.
Want to show that you’re well put together and can correctly dress for the occasion? Here is our easy guide on what NOT to wear to an interview.
What Not to Wear to an Interview
1. Outfits that are too casual
Living in a tropical climate, it’s understandable why “less is more”, but it’s not so straightforward in this case. Since dressing up properly is important, casual outfits are not acceptable for most if not all companies.
We do not recommend wearing shorts, Bermuda-style shorts, tank tops, spaghetti strap tops, ripped jeans, and other outfits that scream “casual” – they should enter your “what not to wear to an interview” list. What about t-shirts? We think it’s better to overdress when it comes to securing your next meals.
2. Outfits that are too revealing
Also related to casual wear, you should not be risking your next job by wearing clothes that are too revealing in nature. In Malaysia, the safest method for all job applicants should be to dress in a conservative manner – especially in professional settings such as job interviews.
Men, or women, should be conscious of their necklines, hemlines, and the way their clothes fit their bodies in general. Before leaving to attend the interview, take a final look in the mirror and decide if it’s too revealing. Unsure? Put them into the “what not to wear to an interview” list and change them.
3. Mini skirts or mini dresses
Depending on the company’s dress code (which you will need to research), skirts and dresses are actually suitable for job interviews. The problem occurs if they are too short such as mini skirts and mini dresses.
You should always ensure that your skirt and dress at knee-length or longer if possible. This is important because skirts and dresses can ride up a few inches when you are seater, making them shorter than they actually are.
4. Open-toe shoes or sneakers
Another infamous item for what not to wear to an interview in Malaysia is open-toe shoes and sneakers. Shoewear such as slippers, flip flops, crocs, and casual sneakers are too informal for job interviews and they can affect your first impression.
Rather than risking giving out the impression that you are unserious about the job application, you should always opt for closed-toe dress shoes such as flats, dress boots, dress heels, and Oxfords.
5. Unprofessional accessories
Accessories can be great to showcase your personality and touch up your already professional outfits. However, over-accessorising or wearing unprofessional accessories can be inappropriate when attending job interviews.
This is because too many accessories can be a distraction during a serious job interview, while unprofessional accessories such as novelty accessories can negatively affect your professionalism and the first impression – include them in the “what not to wear to an interview” list!
6. Funny or novelty ties
For jobs that require a formal dress code, wearing a tie is common in that kind of job environment. While interviewing for such jobs, avoid wearing the novelty tie you wore last Christmas or the funny tie you adored last Halloween.
It’s always better to err on the safer side and be more conservative with your tie’s colours and designs. Navy, black, and silver-coloured ties are safe, while conservative designs such as subdued stripes or tasteful paisley are perfectly fine.
7. Fragrances that are too scented
Moderation is key, and that includes your scent when attending the job interview. Fragrances play an important role in ensuring that your presence is pleasant and complements your professional interview outfit.
Using perfume and cologne is fine, but you may want to tone it down as having a strong scent could backfire and make your interviewer uncomfortable. Those fragrances should then enter into your “What not to wear to an interview” list.
Keep it moderate and neutral – you’re good to go as long as you do not bring discomfort to others.
Final Remarks
As good as our what not to wear to an interview guide may be, you will have to make the final decision on what to and what not to wear. That is why you should research and understand the company’s culture and dress code requirements before attending the interview for jobs in Malaysia.
Before going to the interview, consider going through our physical interview guide and ensure that you have all the necessary files for a job interview.
