We’ve all heard it before, you only get one chance to make a first impression.  Like it or not, a first impression can end up being the make-or-break factor when it comes to choosing between you and another candidate.

That being said, it’s important to dress properly for a manufacturing interview. Most people will say  dressing up is solely for corporate office positions, but this isn’t necessarily true. While there are no stringent rules with regards to the manufacturing interview, turning up in torn jeans and a wrinkled shirt will leave a negative impression regardless of how well you perform.

The following are a few considerations when deciding how to dress for a manufacturing job interview.

Business or Business Casual?

For many people about to walk into an interview, the biggest question is often: “Do I put on a suit or go business casual?”

Generally speaking, you can’t go wrong with a conservative suit – especially if you feel comfortable in one. You’ve probably walked into a fast food restaurant before and seen a teenager interviewing in a suit just to work the cash register. So, if a suit is good enough in that situation, it’s good enough for any kind of interview, right?

On the other hand, it’s also perfectly okay to dress casually for jobs that don’t call for business attire. If you are interviewing for the production line or a janitorial position, turning up in a suit might seem like you are putting on airs. In these jobs, there is more of an emphasis on functionality, and if the interview involves touring a dirty area, physical work or dexterity – a suit will be more of a drawback than an asset.

By the way, “business casual” means wearing your best button-down shirt and dark pants. For ladies, a blouse, dark pants and dress shoes would be sufficient. It’s also perfectly acceptable to ask the hiring manager what appropriate dress is for the interview. If anything, they will appreciate your willingness to communicate, attention to detail and thoughtfulness.

A few Dos and Don’ts

• DO wear the sharpest-looking clothes you have that aren’t overly flamboyant. You might think you look great in that neon green button-down, but something that flashy isn’t appropriate for an interview.
• DO avoid dressing in a revealing way. For men, it’s a good idea not to wear shirts that are too short in the sleeves or too tight. For women, its best to avoid sleeveless tops, low-cut blouses and short skirts.
• DO keep the accessories to a minimum. Accessories can be a distraction and a temptation to play with if you’re feeling nervous.
• DON’T dress too casual. When in doubt, wear a suit.
• DON’T wear dirty or wrinkled clothes. It gives the impression you are sloppy.
• DON’T wear any clothing with big logos or statements on it. Once again, these items are distractions that can take the focus away from your performance.

At Action group, we help job seekers with every part of the hiring process, from resume writing to interview prep. Please call us today if you are in need of some assistance.