Interviewing Attire

Interviewing Advice: Attire

This is going to be one of the most exciting things you’ll ever do! You’ll have butterflies and be really nervous -that’s totally normal! Keep in mind, you got the interview and that is the first part you did all the work you had to do up until that point. Now it is time to shine and be yourself! Programs invite you to interviews to get to know what type of person you are, and how well you will fit in with their school. They also invite you so you can find out if the school is a good fit for you. One other reason, is to see what type of professional you are from how you are dressed, how you communicate and articulate things, and how you interact with others. I had one University spokesperson tell me that they rarely do Skype interviews/phone interviews because they can’t see you in person. They wanted to see all of you, especially with Skype you may only be dressed professionally from the waist up. I never realized all the small details they looked at!

GIRLS:

Everything has to be modest and covered. What I wore to my interviews was a blazer, button up shirt it was (royal blue if that helps), dress pants. and flats. I was just most comfortable in this and felt professional. Great advice I have always been given is to never wear shirts with crazy patterns or colors that are “too loud”. It is really distracting to see this as an interviewer.

-If you decide to wear a dress: Make sure you wear tights and that your arms are covered to an extent and not showing too much skin.

-Skirts: Nothing above the knee.

-Shoes: If you wear heels make sure they are kitten heels. 1-2 inches max. This is a much more professional look. Flats are acceptable or any other comfortable professional shoes. Keep in mind you are going to be doing a lot of walking from tours, standing, to switching rooms, so if you can’t walk in heels I suggest not wearing them.

Blazers- I think these are great, they pull the look together for me.

WHAT NOT TO WEAR: Believe it or not I have seen girls show up in yoga pants and a pair of jeans to interview. This is an absolute no! You want the school to see you as a professional on this day. I get comfort, but not to this extent. Believe me I am all about being comfortable. No boots! This is a professional situation not a causal business situation.

GUYS:

I have read that many different things about this but this is just my opinion.

-Suits: They make you look like a polished professional. Many of the interviews I have been on most of the guys are wearing suits. Make sure it fits right! I’ve seen navy and black mostly

- Collared shirts and ties: I think in some cases this is perfectly acceptable. Lets say you do not have time to get a suit or it is just too much of an expensive option. I think this looks just as professional as a suit. I have seen guys wear this with a professional looking sweater over it. The color/pattern of your shirts and ties should not be “too loud” stick neutral colors and patterns. You do not want to distract your interviewer.

Slacks/Khakis: I have seen both and think that they look great depending on what you pair them with.

WHAT NOT TO WEAR: Jeans and shorts. I have sadly seen both at interviews.

EDIT :Here is the thing. As applicants we spend lots of money on applications etc. I get buying a suit can be expensive. If you can afford one great, if you can’t that doesn’t make you any less of an applicant or a person. We are professionals and as long as you dress professionally and carry yourself that way that matters most. I have spoken with a few DPT professors that I have as mentors. As long as you do the things stated above that’s all that matters, you as a person will impress them the most. SO put a smile on and rock the interview in a professional outfit that is perfect for you.

If you are a guy and have any advice you would like me to include in this post let me know! My knowledge is not too extensive in this area lol.

SKYPE INTERVIEWS:

No matter what you should be dressed professionally from head to toe. Treat this as an in person interview. You never know if they may ask you to grab something or to even see your attire! Always be prepared.

Just remember this is a professional program. You are applying to be a Dr. of Physical Therapy, so be as professional as you can.