Finance: First impressions do count, job hunters

New Zealand Fashion Week is upon us and the fashion big guns are out in force, but what does that mean to us office troops in our "work clothes"?

What you wear in the office and to interviews has a big influence on people's perceptions of you and how you work.

Most workplaces will have standard dress codes that all staff will loosely abide by, but every now and then you will get the office maverick go all out to let the rest of us know that they are the top butterfly or chief peacock.

So what's best for our career and what helps when we're trying to make an impression?

Knowing the company and how to do the job is a good start, but after this the next tool in your arsenal is what you wear.

If you show up for an interview in a leather jacket and no tie, and with scuffed shoes, chances are the interviewer may think that if you can't be bothered to pay attention to your attire then you probably won't apply yourself to the job.

On the other hand, showing up in a tuxedo or a ball gown for an interview in a freezing plant shows that you're not really tuned in to those you are trying to impress.

Dress respectfully, clean and tidy, polish those shoes and make sure everything you're wearing is ironed and buttoned up.

The shirt poking through your zipper isn't a good look.

Simple colours like grey, navy and black and white, with a splash of colour, work well.

Don't overdo the makeup or the cologne, you're not on a date.

When all is said and done, dressing well at an interview, or in your present position, is looked upon favourably by those in positions of power at the workplace.

The reason for this is simple.

Your attention to detail and tidiness will be perceived as an extension of how you apply yourself to work.

With this on your side, bosses will see you as a good representative of the company and how its business is conducted.

But always remember to back it up. Look impressive, be impressive, and soon you'll be enjoying your place on the office "runway".

Mark Doyle, is client services manager for Shamrock Recruitment Group in Wellington, which caters to recruitment needs for both client and candidate and specialises in commercial and executive recruitment and psychometric assessment services. See www.srg.co.nz