OT: need some advice for real life

[Fullmetal Chocobo]

Okay, if no one would mind, I could use some advice for some things going on. I finally told my supervisors that I plan on applying to other positions at the University where I work, and that actually went much better than I was expecting. And now that everyone knows about it, it seems to be the thing that everyone is talking about. Anyway, I just submitted my application for the tech job, but I'm wanting to get ready for this just in case. So I am trying to get an interview outfit ready.

From what I understand, the normal office attire will be slacks and a button up shirt, or something close to that. So for the interview, I believe I would have to go one level above that (am I correct in this theory?), so that would mean that I would have to get a sport coat. Only problem is, I have no idea what one actually is, nor where I would get it from.

If anyone else has something to post that they would like info on, by all means, do so. This is meant to be a general information thread, so post what you wish. (I meant that there is no such thing as thread jacking in this thread; not that there was no posting outside OP's topic).

 

[LOUISSSSS]

go to H&M.. got a $50 jacket there...

 

[GenHoth]

Go to one of the nice department stores in your area, wear what you'll wear to the interview, and ask! Find a representative in the Men's department and go to town.

 

[Michielhaisma]

go to http://www.tie-a-tie.net/ they got some nifty tips for ya!

 

[PeterN]

Hi FullMetal,

I've been in a job interview very recently. What I put on was a casual, but still 'clothy' look.
I bought my clothes at a local mens fashion shop called Setpoint. It's here in The Netherlands, so it will be a bit far to go for you.

They do have their 84page brochure online. You can stroll through it, because it is an online pdf application.

If you take a look at pages 36 until ~45, you'll see some guys wearing the clothing I'm talking about. Maybe that will give you some ideas.

Basic idea is not a costum (like earlier pages), but still nice enough to make an impression. With or without a sweater is a choice you must make. Only a shirt is fine also. To stay casual, don't wear a tie. First determine a basic color. For me it turned out to be a dark brown trousers and then work your way from there. Try to keep some contrasting colors also (dark trousers, light shirt, medium blazer or something like that). Make sure you match the socks and shoes to the whole outfit, but keep it until last. And don't forget the belt.

Most important thing: Take something in which you feel very comfortable. Don't let someone from a shop push you into buying stuff you don't like, because that will show in the interview.

Another thing to consider is that you can wear these kind of cloths whenever you have an important meeting or presentation. Otherwise go with the flow and put on something more suitable according to the 'dress code' in the university.

And, before you all ask: yes I got the job. The position is webmaster of one of the larger cities in The Netherlands. I started last week.

 

[Alyx]

Another thing to consider, if the normal attire for the office would be slacks and button up shirt then for an interview you could just throw in a tie and solid color shirt. Thats what all the interviewees wore for our tech job here. I'm not exactly sure how high up in tech you're talking though, you'd be the best judge for that.

 

[Rudy Toody]

Don't forget the pocket-protector and the anti-static bracelets.

 

[biodoc]

Dark Navy blue sport coat
white button up shirt with button down collars (conservative tie if appropriate; dark blue with subtle pattern)
gray dress slacks (tan/white khakis for more casual look)
black dress socks (pattern should be subtle/conservative)
black dress loafers (polished)
get a nice hair cut & shave of course
trim finger nails and clean of course;
breath mints handy

the "weight" of the sport coat/slacks should be appropriate for the weather.

Dressing nicely gives you a sense of self confidence and also shows you are serious about the job interview and position.

Also show some excitement/enthusiasm for the job but don't go overboard.

When I hire people I look for someone who is very bright. enthusiastic and who is also a nice person.

Good luck and be yourself!!!

 

[Hurricane Andrew]

Personally, I've always favored the suit. Preferably a dark gray or navy blue suit, white shirt, and red tie. It's a very nice contrast and just says "professional". It shows you want the position, are mature, and take the opportunity seriously. If the company is VERY casual, then a sport coat, slacks and tie would probably suffice. Remember, you want to stand out.

Also, I'm sure you know this, but make sure you learn as much as possible about the department / position that you are interviewing for. Have some good questions ready, and if appropriate, maybe some thoughts on what you can bring to the group and how your strengths would complement (not overshadow ) the current staff.

 

[Crazee]

Hurricane Andrew has given excellent advice. Standing out is good. If you dress very nicely it shows you want the job more than the guy who didn't. You are in San Marcos, head to the Men's Warehouse - there is one in Barton Creek in Barton Square Mall and another at 9600 S Interstate 35 Suite S300. They have a wide selection for most budgets and you can have the tailoring done there. link

As he also said make sure you know as much as possible before hand about the position, the dept, etc. Go in with a confident loose attitude and be as personable as possible. Frequently there are a plethora of candidates who know the tech end, there are very few who can talk with people and handle situations with good customer service.

 

[GLeeM]

Pretty hard to go wrong with the last three posts :thumbsup:

 

[caferace]

Stay off the limoncello the night before. (<---not a thread jack)

-jim

 

[Fullmetal Chocobo]

Originally posted by: caferace
Stay off the limoncello the night before. (<---not a thread jack)

-jim

Sorry, I edited the OP -- I meant that anyone can say anything, so thread jacking was impossible. Not that no one should post something else on their mind.

BTW, I'm trying not to spam replies in the thread, so I haven't been responding. Thanks for all of the posts so far, and I am dutifully taking notes.

And congrats on the new position PeterN. :beer:

Originally posted by: Alyx
Another thing to consider, if the normal attire for the office would be slacks and button up shirt then for an interview you could just throw in a tie and solid color shirt. Thats what all the interviewees wore for our tech job here. I'm not exactly sure how high up in tech you're talking though, you'd be the best judge for that.

It's an entry level position--System Support Specialist I at the library. I'm migrating over from dispatch, so I pretty much have to start at the bottom. That, and I don't have any official paperwork (certs, etc) of my technicial skills.

 

[PeterN]

How is the job application going? We're all curious.

 

[Fullmetal Chocobo]

Originally posted by: PeterN
How is the job application going? We're all curious.

Application and paperwork are posted. Evidently the person who I would be working for over in that department is the brother of someone I know working where I am now. I'll be going shopping to get a suit next weekend. Last time, it took me about three months from time of submitted application to receiving word that I got the position when I applied to be a dispatcher, so I don't expect this to move too quickly.

 

[PeterN]

Will keep my fingers crossed for ya. And with me a lot of other TA'ers.