Appearance
Our appearance as professionals is always part of our brand. Although this topic can be sensitive, it must be addressed. We have seen too many candidates lose the job offer because they were not presentable for the role they wanted. Unfortunately, the word “grooming” leaves too much room for interpretation when it comes to the work place and more specifically, Wall Street.
The reality is that the better an economy, the more room there is for self-expression. But as the job market tightens, the margins thin for self-expression through your wardrobe. Therefore, stick to basics and express yourself at home.
This is not the time for the red tie, or the red peep toe pumps. A navy blue or steel grey suit will compliment any skin tone. Black tends to be too severe for interviewing and brown is not a color to which interviewers respond positively.
Choose a light blue shirt instead of the ubiquitous white, as light blue makes everyone’s complexion appear more vibrant. Also make sure that your shirt is perfectly ironed and starched. Women may wear a blouse in lighter, pastel colors as well but stay away from colors that are too bright or fabrics that are shear, clingy or lacy.
Jewelry
Everyone should be cautioned against jewelry! Don’t wear jewelry other than a watch and wedding band/engagement ring. Women may wear small earrings and a strand of pearls. Men need to remove earring prior to interview. Any everyone needs to leave other rings, gold chains, pinky rings, college ring, dangle earrings, nose rings, toe rings and brackets on any limb – at home. Save your jewelry and creative clothing for personal time.
I didn’t make up these rules but I have been a front row witness to what works and doesn’t work on Wall Street. Getting the job offer is how we keep score of the success of the candidate’s interviewing ability and their appearance plays a major role.
Males
- No Facial hair
- Perfectly pressed suit and shirt
- Black lace-up shoes
- Short hair – neat, simple and clean
- Short nails, clean and buffed
- Watch and wedding band
Female
- No facial hair
- Minimalist and natural make up
- Perfectly pressed suit and shirt/blouse
- Nails, short with clear or light varnish – No nail extensions
- Hair-no longer than shoulder length-worn neatly down or back
- Shoes-closed toed pumps-moderate heel
- Jewelry-small earrings, strand of pearls, watch and wedding/engagement ring
“Cleaniless is next to godliness”
I cannot stress enough how important it is for men and women to look clean. Clean hair, no exposed roots, and no dandruff!
Exposed roots look unkempt therefore unclean. It doesn’t matter if the roots are exposed because they are dark or grey if your uncolored roots are peaking out at least an inch its time to go back to the salon for a touch up. Men make sure your haircut is fresh and your sideburns are short, neat and trimmed.
Energy and Age – not necessarily related
I feel I have to address this topic despite the danger of it. We have sent candidates to clients only to receive the feedback “we are looking for someone more energetic.” This is feedback we have received regarding 25 year-olds and 40 year-olds alike. What does this mean? Everyone wants to hire people who are energetic! You must appear vibrant, vivacious and alive. Make sure you look like you are thrilled to be there and excited to have the job.
How to look energetic?
Look well rested and alert which means you cannot go out the night before. Plan your outfit by laying out your clothes the night before. I you have a fashion plan you won’t make spontaneous decisions or lose sleep over what to wear. Have breakfast so that you do not appear edgy or distracted. Exercise in the morning (a brisk walk or run) so that you look healthy and fit. Look fit means maintaining a weight that is perceived as healthy (being overweight or underweight appears unhealthy to most interviewers). Wear proper-fitting clothing (not too tight, not to long, not too short).
