Avoid the 10 Most Common Interview Mistakes

Deadly Sins to Avoid in Job Interviewing

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INTERVIEWING TYPES AND TIPS

 Screening Interview

These interviews are usually conducted by telephone or via video conference or quickly in person. 

One-on-One Interview

This is the most common interview format and is usually conducted on site by the hiring supervisor.  The interview on average lasts one and a half to two hours.  Some may be as short as thirty minutes or as long as four hours (perhaps even all day!).  The interview focuses on questions designed to assess your skills, knowledge, and abilities as they relate to the job.

            Tip:  Know the organization you are interviewing with!  In addition to selling your key strengths, be prepared to answer behavioral type questions as well as being prepared to ask questions of your own.

Panel Interview

This group interview is usually conducted by three or more persons representing different departments with the organization or company.

            Tip:  Remember to direct your answer to the person asking the question but maintain eye contact with all interviewers.  After the interview be sure to send follow up thank-you note to all members of the interview panel.

Peer Group Interview

This type of group interview will introduce you to your potential co-workers.  Similar to a Panel Interview, they will be evaluating you and making recommendations as to whether or not you should receive a job offer (although they usually do not have the final hiring authority).

            Tip:  Focus on being agreeable, friendly, and approachable rather than someone who has all the answers.

Luncheon Interview

The lunch interview is used to assess how well you handle yourself in social situations.  You will probably be dining with your potential boss and co-workers as well as an HR representative. 

            Tip:  Make your meal selection carefully.  Steer clear of messy foods (spaghetti, ribs, etc.).  Do not order alcohol even if others do.

Second Interview

Second interviews are similar to first interviews except they are usually longer (maybe even one or two days); involve more people and more “higher ups” in the organization.  You will probably have combinations of different types of interviews such as One-on-One, Panel, Peer Group, and Luncheon.

            Tip:  Switch your focus from emphasizing your specific strengths to selling yourself as a well-balanced package.  Listen carefully and discerningly to what is being said to determine if this organization or company is really a good fit for you. 

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DEADLY SINS TO AVOID IN JOB INTERVIEWING

This is for those of you who are out of work or who desperately need that better job and are not getting it done.

Talk about DEPRESSING'. When you hear, "We will call you", it is about as sincere as, "How are you today?" It is difficult to know how you REALLY do at an interview, because this experience is such a guessing game, and in the unknown interplay of people reading people--neither party knows.

By reading and combining the following tips along with some careful self--examination, you can, the next time you interview, stack the odds in your favor.

What about the fear? Use it to your advantage by using it to prepare yourself. Use it to know as much as possible about who you are and where you are going. Then, tell yourself over and over that you will be afraid only until you get into the interview. Then, you will forget the fear and let roll with your "act" -- rehearsed, prepared, and polished.

Sin #1: Not being properly prepared

This means: No resume, no prepared information about yourself, not prepared with basics such as black erasable pen, not prepared with good business-type answers to questions. The interviewer will ask you certain questions, not to make conversa-tion, but to bring out your true self to see if you really want to work and will be an asset to their firm. You might call them "gentle trap" questions. The best way to handle these questions is with strictly business-related answers. For example, "Tell me a little about yourself' does not means kids, family, or where you live. It means business background and what you have done that might be of use to this company. If you are not heavily experienced, you can talk about related schooling and training that will be helpful on the job.

"What are your career goals?" This question means, does this person have any ambition to better herself or himself and our company. "I just want a good job" does not indicate any future interest beyond the next paycheck.

When asked "What kind of work are you looking for?", your answer should not be "anything." Gear it to something positive, such as, "I have particularly good typing skills, I have special training on word processors, or I like working in accounting-type surroundings."

Other questions that can kill you are:

• What was your worst subject in school?
• What is your greatest weakness?
• What do you do in your spare time?

These seemingly innocent questions are not. Answer such questions in a positive way. You admit to no faults. It is fine to say you like public contact and working with people over working alone. All answers, however, must be business-related answers, and you must be able to turn any question into a positive answer.

Sin #2: Getting there too early, too late, or not at all

Published opinions on this recommend being from 5-15 minutes early. Only five minutes early is running close unless you're already sitting in your car in the parking lot. Find the correct place before the interview. "Oh, I know where you are" isn't good enough. "Are you located on the 3rd floor on the State Street side of the building?" is much better.

If your appointment is out of town, or you are unable to get an exact fix on the location, make your appointment in a time range. "May I schedule the appointment between 2 and 2:15 since downtown parking can be difficult?" Usually, you won't be refused. Of course, you will be there at 2, but this gives you a hedge to use if you are trapped in traffic, lost or have trouble parking. Of course, if there is a problem and you will be even a few minutes late, stop and call. This means you have the phone number of where you are going, plus change for a pay phone Better yet, leave early and plan on those unexpected delays, such as late bus, and/or general calamity. Never just not show up.

Sin #3: Dressing inappropriately

Describe it as you will, most of the business world is a beige world, so you should be very conservative. Flash and style might be reserved for a few understated accessories. For women the skirted business suit is in timeless good taste.

If you don't own a business suit or tailored dress, coordinate a plain jacket and blouse with a skirt. Coordinate this with a basic purse and shoes, and simple jewelry, and you're ready. If you don't own a matching purse, carry your information in a file and lock your mismatched purse in the trunk of your car. The same rules of dress apply for men. A suit or tailored jacket with coordinated shirt and tie in subdued colors with simple accessories work best. Although you hear other opinions on this, dress conservatively, no matter what.

Sin #4: Talking too much or too little

Interviewers will often ask you general questions just to get you talking. Talk, but talk business. The main message coming from you must be, "I want to work and be a good, career employee. I will be here on time every day doing my job."

Anticipate objections and answer them. If you are a woman with small children, anticipate the unasked question about child care by stating that you have a good child care situation. Say such things as: "I will handle both career and family very well." These are magic words to an employer. It shows that you are aware of work situations. For example, he or she probably has faced Monday mornings with stacks of work and no employee. This may be why this job is available.

Sin #5: Not being aware of body language

Psychologists tell us that over 60% of what we say is non-verbal. Just as you can read a child who has taken a candy bar without permission, many personnel people are trained to read you. One of the most obvious negative positions is arms folded and legs crossed. This signals a negative, timid, or bored attitude. Also, keep your hands off your face. Many hand to face gestures involving the mouth, nose, and ears are seen as signs of doubt, negativeness, or even lying. This may seem like over-reading of a situation, but people who are trained in the science of body language use it. Just remember to keep your hands on your notebook or folder. Maintain eye contact with your interviewer. Be friendly and natural, but business-like, be interested and enthusiastic; I think you get the message.

Sin #6: Not asking questions about the job or the company

Asking questions shows interest. Know as much as you can ahead of time about the company and the job for which you are applying. You may wish to call and ask the personnel secretary about the job and question what the company does. You are not being nosy; you are being professional.

Say such things (if they are true) as, "I heard that your company is a nice place to work." Be prepared to be asked who told you this. Be careful about using employees names unless you know the person named has been employee of the month, or is especially well liked. "I know Maggie Pie in Accounting" could backfire if she is to be fired as a poor employee.

Sin # 7: Asking salary

Particularly on first or entry level jobs, don't ask; they will get to it. Also, don't tell what you will accept as this can cost you money. Say, "I will accept whatever the range is for this position." Or, "What I will accept is open depending on the opportunities that go with the position."

Decide in advance how you will answer questions. You must sound and be sincere. You may ask a relative or friend to give you some hard questions and field them. Listen to yourself answering them on a tape recorder.

Sin #8: Not following up with a thank you note or telephone call

Or, not following up at all! Yes, follow up more than once. In fact, drive them politely nuts. This says you're interested and willing to work... you want the job.

If you are told you did not get the job, ask who might be hiring. Also, ask what made the difference as to why they hired the person they did. Don't say to yourself, "There must be something wrong with me" say "Do you have a suggestion on how I can do better next time?" If this is done is a friendly, non-threatening, asking-for-help manner, you gain much useful information. Listen carefully.

Sin #9: Getting defensive or angry

The tendency to have to be on the defensive is decreasing since the implementation of discrimination laws. However, there will always be those people who ask questions that are just none of their business. Some people will even ask "touchy" questions to see how you react and handle yourself. Getting along on the job is difficult, and if the interviewer spots a hot-head or a temperamental tendency, you are done.

Additional points:

Practice shaking hands to get good at it. Don't wear new and different clothes, because they will tend to make you feel uncomfortable. Lastly, if you don't get a job, don't allow feelings of rejection to discourage you. Chalk it up as experience. Follow these suggestions, and you will soon not only be good at interviewing, but you will be working!

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INFORMATION INTERVIEWING

Many of you have heard that information interviewing is a valuable tool to use in a job search.

While the goal of employment interviewing is to obtain a job offer, the goal of information interviewing is to gain information about a career field upon which to base some career decisions and to put you in touch with possible job leads. The following are tips to effective information interviewing.

1. Begin with people you know. Choose from this group those who are in career fields to which you aspire or people in related career areas.
2. What about people you don't already know? Identify them through newspapers, telephone books, professional associations, directories, and professional counselors. Check with the Career Services Office for a list of Manchester College alumni who are willing to talk with you.
3. Schedule an appointment for a specific amount of time. It is recommended that you ask for no more than 30 minutes.
4. Be prepared! Take an active role to get the most out of your information interview.
5. Review in your mind what you want to learn from an individual.
6. Have questions prepared ahead of time.
7. Following are some sample questions you might want to choose from.
   • What credentials (education degrees, licenses, etc.) are required for effectiveness in this occupation?
   • How much variety would you say there is in the type of work you do?
   • What types of employers hire people in your line of work?
   • What kinds of work values attract people to your occupation (security, income, prestige, etc.)?
   • What do you find most rewarding/least rewarding about this career field?
   • What is the future job outlook in this field (increased or decreased opportunity, etc.)?
   • What is the typical entry level salary range for positions in this field? What is the potential?
8. Ask the person with whom you are speaking to refer you to others who would be good sources of information. Try to receive 2-3 additional names from each person with whom you speak.
9. Critically evaluate what you have been told. Are there trends developing from one person to another?
10. Make sure you have the correct name and title of the person with whom you've spoken. Write a thank you note within two days after the appointment.

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 Before any of these questions can be answered, it is your responsibility to make several lists.  This group of lists should contain a list of skills, accomplishments, strengths, the things you do best, activities that you were or still involved in, and greatest areas of knowledge.  Along with the ideas on your list, write down some specific examples that show off that characteristic.

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 So, tell me about yourself.

This question is an open ended question that usually catches people by surprise.  When an interviewer is asking this question he or she is scouting for two or three of your traits. These traits should relate to the job. 

How to reply:

1) Brief introduction

2) List a couple of your key accomplishments

3) List a couple of your key strengths demonstrated by these accomplishments.

4) Elaborate on the importance of these strengths and accomplishments to your prospective employer.

5) Answer where and how you see yourself developing in the position for which you’re applying (with the right amount of modesty).

Some tips:

1) Try to formulate an answer before you go into the interview.

2) Keep things conversational.  Do not sound rehearsed.

3) Include strong positive phrases and words.

4) Use this question to set the course of the interview.

5) End with a question.  This will give you a breather while demonstrating involvement and enthusiasm.

QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR WORK HISTORY:

Why are you thinking about leaving your current job?

Why did you end up leaving your last job?

These questions can be fatal, if not answered right.

How to reply:

1) Unless you have been fired or laid off, you should make it clear that you sitting in front of the interviewer only because you seek more responsibility, a bigger challenge, and better opportunities for growth. 

Some tips:

1) Do not speak negatively about your former employer.  Your interviewer will assume that, if hired, you would talk the same way about your new employer as well.

2) When answering this question, imagine the ideal next step in your career.  Then act as though you are interviewing for it.

Tips for answering questions about your work history:

1) Be positive about your reasons for leaving your current job.  Just remember the key word is “more”.  You were looking for more responsibility and opportunity.

2) If you have been fired, stress what you have learned from the experience.

3) Quantify the confidence that past employers have placed in you.

4) Remember the rule, “If you can’t say something nice, then don’t say anything at all”.  Do not speak badly about past employers.

5) Make the job you are interviewing for your chief objective.

Why do you want to work here?

In order to answer this question, you must research the organization.

 How to reply:

1) Reply with some of the company’s attributes.

2) Describe how you can strengthen those attributes, or how they can strengthen you.

What are your biggest accomplishments?

This is a way for an employer to determine how much you have contributed.

 How to reply:

1) Make sure the answers relate to the job.

2) Start your answer with, “Although I feel my biggest achievements are still ahead of me, I am proud with my involvement with......”.

What are your qualifications?   

The employer is trying to see if you match the job. 

How to reply:

1) Give examples that show your skills and accomplishments.

2) Stress the skills that relate to the job.

3) Use numbers whenever possible.

What are your strengths and weaknesses?

The employer is trying to find out exactly what kind of person you are.

 How to reply:

1) List a skill and accomplishment that is directly related to the employer’s need.

2) Turn your negative weakness into a positive.

3 )Let the employer know that you are working on fixing your weakness.

Why should we hire you?

This employer wants to know the real motivations for seeking employment with him or her.

 How to reply:

1) As always, stress your abilities and skills that relate to the job.

2) Be as specific as possible.

Do you have any questions?

This is your time to show the employer that you are very interested in the job.  Your interviewer will also be looking to see if you did any research on the company. 

How to reply:

1) Here are some sample questions.

            What is at typical work week like?

            Is this job new?

I am used to computers from college and my past job.  I wonder what type of computer system is used here?

            You seem very enthusiastic about this company.  Can you tell me some of the reasons people like working here.

Some tips:

1) Show the interviewer that you did some research in the company.

2) You could start your question by saying....

            I read in your brochure..........

            I know that your company.........

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 Here are some books that would be very helpful.

101 Dynamite Answers to Interview Questions

Best Answers to the 201 Most Frequently Asked Questions

Knock ‘Em Dead

101 Dynamite Questions to Ask at Your Job Interview

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HANDLING THE ILLEGAL QUESTION

Title VII is a federal law which prohibits employers from discriminating against any person on the basis of sex, age, race, national origin, or religion. Many states have enacted laws that protect people who fall into other categories, such as the physically challenged. Here are some general guidelines interviews must follow.

• An interviewer may not ask about your religion, church, synagogue, parish, the religious holidays you observe, or your political beliefs or affiliations. The interviewer may not ask, for instance, "Does your religion allow you to work on Saturdays?" But, the interviewer may ask something like, "This job requires work on Saturdays. Is that a problem?"
• An interviewer may not ask about your ancestry, national origin, or parentage. In addition, you cannot be asked about the naturalization status of your parents, spouse, or children. The interviewer cannot ask about your birthplace. But, the interviewer may ask whether you are a U.S. citizen or a resident alien with the right to work in the U.S.
• An interviewer may not ask about your native language, the language you speak at home, or how you acquired the ability to read, write, or speak a foreign language. But, he or she may ask about the languages in which you are fluent, if knowledge of those languages is pertinent to the job.
• An interviewer may not ask about your age, your date of birth, or the ages of your children. But, he or she may ask you whether you are over 18 years old.
• An interviewer may not ask about maiden names or whether you have changed your name, your marital status, number of children or dependents, or your spouse's occupation; or whether (if you are a woman) you wish to be addressed as Miss, Mrs. or Ms. But, the interviewer may ask about how you like to be addressed.

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QUESTIONS FOR THE INTERVIEWER

For a candidate in an interview situation, asking poignant, intelligent questions is an important method of communicating to the recruiter interest and commitment to employment with their company. If a prospective candidate has taken the time to research a company they have interest in, there should be some questions that naturally arise from that process. Below are some possible questions candidates may inquire during an employment interview.

1. How would you describe your corporation. Have there been any significant management changes in the past five years?
    
2. Have there been any significant management changes in the past five years?
    
3. Is your company’s management philosophy structured?
    
4. What do you consider the company’s strengths and weaknesses?
    
5. What makes your firm different from its competitors?
    
6. What are the company S future plans and goals?
    
7. What industry trends will occur in this company?
    
8. How has this company fared during the recent recession?
    
9. What attracted you to this organization?
    
10. Why do you enjoy working for your firm?
     
11. Describe the work environment?
     
12. What kind of career opportunities are currently available for my degree and skills?
     
13. Tell me about your initial and future training programs.
     
14. Describe the typical first year assignments.
     
15. What are the challenging facets of the job?
     
16. How many people held this job in the last five years?
     
17. Is the person who held this job last still with the company?
     
18. Describe your company's philosophy of promoting candidates from within?

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50 QUESTIONS RECRUITERS ASK COLLEGE SENIORS

The purpose of an employment interview is for the interviewer to learn more about a candidates education and qualifications and how they may benefit the interviewer's company. Likewise, prospective candidates want to convince the interviewer that they are best applicant for the position. Listed below are fifty questions often asked by employers during an employment interview. (Dr. Frank Endicott, Black Collegian Feb/Mar 1981)

1. What are your long-range and short-range goals and objectives; when and why did you establish these goals and how are you preparing yourself to achieve them?
2. What specific goals, other than those related to your occupation, have you established for yourself for the next ten years?
3. What do you see yourself doing five years from now?
4. What do you really want to do in life?
5. What are your long-range career objectives?
6. How do you plan to achieve your career goals?
7. What are the most important rewards you expect in your business career?
8. What do you expect to be earning in five years?
9. Why did you choose the career for which you are preparing?
10. Which is more important to you, the money or the type of job?
11. What do you consider to be your greatest strengths and weaknesses?
12. How would you describe yourself?
13. How do you think a friend or professor who knows you well would describe you?
14. What motivates you to put forth your greatest effort?
15. How has your college experience prepared you for a business career?
16. Why should I hire you?
17. What qualifications do you have that you think will make you successful in business?
18. How do you determine or evaluate success?
19. What do you think it takes to be successful in a company like ours?
20. In what ways do you think you can make a contribution to our company?
21. What qualities should a successful manager possess?
22. Describe the relationship that should exist between a supervisor and subordinates.
23. What two or three accomplishments have given you the most satisfaction? Why?
24. Describe your most rewarding college experience.
25. If you were hiring a for this position, what qualities would you look for?
26. Why did you select your college or university?
27. What led you to choose your field of major study?
28. What college subjects did you like best? Why?
29. What college subjects did you like least? Why?
30. If you could do so, how would you plan your academic study differently? Why?
31. What changes would you make in your college or university?
32. Do you have plans for continued study? An advanced degree?
33. Do you think that your grades are a good indication of your academic achievement?
34. What have you learned from participation in extracurricular activities?
35. In what kind of a work environment are you most comfortable?
36. How do you work under pressure?
37. Are you interested in part-time work? Why?
38. How would you describe the ideal job for you following graduation?
39. Why did you decide to seek a position with this company?
40. What do you know about our company?
41. What two or three things are most important to you in your job?
42. Are you seeking employment in a company of a certain size? Why?
43. What criteria are you using to evaluate the company for which you hope to work?
44. Do you have a geographical preference? Why?
45. Will you relocate? Does relocation bother you?
46. Are you willing to travel?
47. Are you willing to spend at least six months as a trainee?
48. Why do you think you might like to live in the community in which our company is located?
49. What major problems have you encountered? How did you deal with them?
50. What have you learned from your mistakes?

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TIPS FOR YOUR BUSINESS WARDROBE - MEN

Looking the part promises both personal and financial success. These tips will help you select high quality garments and keep them in top condition.

The following wardrobe tips will help you select high quality garments and keep them in top condition.

Suits: Look for...

• Classic fabrics, patterns, and colors which are always in style and easy to accessorize.
• Well-defined lapel points: when squeezed they should return to their original shape without wrinkles.
• Smooth, straight seams with a single row of stitching.
• Contoured jacket collar which lays smoothly around the neck with no space between it and your shirt.
• Properly aligned vents.
• Smooth, straight seams with a single row of stitching.
• Blended natural fiber and synthetic fabrics which provide the best look, comfort, and durability.
• A specialty store with experienced tailors and fitters who can give you the proper fit to add life to the garment.

Suit Care: Be sure to...

• Hang suits on wooden of plastic contour hangers. Leave your jacket unbuttoned and be sure to empty the pockets.
• Leave space between hangers so garments will be free of wrinkles.
• Allow your suit to rest at least 24 hours between wearings and try to alternate suits.
• Brush clothes between cleanings.
• Read and follow the care instruction on your garment.

Shirts: The best ones have ..

• A single row of stitching along shoulder seams and side seams to prevent puckering.
• More stitches per inch. A quality shirt will have fifteen to eighteen stitches per inch for strength and better appearance.
• Natural fibers which will breathe with your body and some polyester to prevent wrinkles.
• Store ties unknotted to hang out wrinkles.
• Maintain an eye-pleasing balance between your collar width, and tie knot size.
• Outer Coats: Keep in mind that…
• Outer coat sleeve length should cover the suit coat sleeve.
• You should sit in your outer coat in the store to be certain that it is comfortable.
• If you live in a very cold climate, buy coats that button around the neck.

Shoes: Remember that…

• Calfskin is the best quality leather for uppers; synthetics may peel or crack.
• Leather uppers allow your feet to breathe and will release moisture.

Shoe Care: Experts recommend that you...

• Store shoes on unfinished wood shoe trees to retain their shape and absorb moisture.
• Apply silicone spray or mink oil to protect the leather.
• Polish your shoes alter every four wearings with a light paste wax to keep them in good condition.
• Use baking soda and water to neutralize and remove salt stains.

Do's and Don'ts for Men for Classic Business Attire

Looking the part promises both personal and financial success. Quality garments wear longer, fit better, and therefore save you money in the long run.

Above all, if your clothing projects an image of authority, others will respond to you in kind. Here are a few suggestions for maintaining the proper image at all times:

• Do Not wear sportscoats on weekdays. You wouldn't wear a three piece suit on the golf course, neither should you wear sporty clothes to the office.
• Do Not wear short-sleeved shirts ever under suit coats. To show a clean cuff is a must.
• DO Not wear ankle socks. Hairy legs are not attractive! They interrupt the silhouette flow from your trousers to your shoes.
• Do Not wear clip-on ties. Neither your boss nor your most important client wears them.
• Do wear your suit jacket when you conduct business beyond your office. Your authority travels with you.
• Do keep hair and nails clean and neat.

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The following wardrobe tips will help you to select high quality garments and keep them in top condition.

Suits: Look for...

• Classic fabrics, patterns, and colors, which are always in style and easy to accessorize.
• Well-defined lapel points: when squeezed they should return to their original shape without wrinkles.
• Contoured jacket collar which lays smoothly around the neck with no space between it and your shirt or blouse.
• Properly aligned vents.
• Smooth, straight seams with a single row of stitching.
• Natural fibers, such as pure wool, provide the best look, comfort, and durability.
• A specialty store with experienced tailors and fitters who can give you the proper fit to add life to the garment.

Suit Care: Be sure to...

• Hang suits on wooden or plastic contour hangers. Leave your jacket unbuttoned and be sure to empty the pockets.
• Leave space between hangers so garments will be free of wrinkles.
• Allow your suit to rest at least 24 hours between wearing and try to alternate suits.
• Brush clothes between cleanings.
• Read and follow the care instructions on your garment.

Outer Coats: Keep in mind that...

• Outer coats sleeve length should cover the suit coat sleeve.
• You should sit in your outer coat in the store to be certain that it is comfortable.

Shoes: Remember that...

• Calfskin is the best quality leather for uppers: synthetics may peel or crack.
• Leather uppers allow your feet to breathe and will release moisture.

Shoe Care: Experts recommend that you...

• Store shoes on unfinished wood shoe trees to retain their shape and absorb moisture.
• Apply silicone spray or mink oil to protect the leather.
• Polish your shoes after every four wearings with light paste wax to keep them in good condition.
• Use baking soda and water to neutralize and remove salt stains.

Do's and Don'ts for Women for Classic Business Attire

• Do Not overpower your appearance with heavy perfume.
• Do Not wear elaborate hairstyles.
• Do Not wear an overabundance of jewelry.
• Do Not wear jeans
• Do Not wear trendy fashions with built-in obsolescence.
• Do wear a comfortable shoe and hosiery to compliment your outfit.
• Do wear makeup that is natural looking.

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