Job interviews are tough, especially for teenagers that are new to the workforce. To ensure the meetings go swimmingly, you have to prepare well.
Part of that is deciding on what to wear to an interview as a teenager. If that’s what you’re trying to figure out, then you’ve come to the right place.
In this article, we’ll talk about everything you need to know about interview attire. We’ll also discuss what clothes to stay away from before the meeting.
What to Wear to an Interview as a Teenager
Walking into your first interview can be a nerve-racking experience. However, the right outfit can help you stand out and ease your anxiety.
There are a few tips you should follow when picking out clothes for a meeting. Let’s dive into some of the best practices for interview attire.
First off, the clothes need to match the job you’re applying for. For example, if you want a position as an intern in an office, then formal is the way to go.
Ideally, a blazer, a button-down dress shirt, and a pair of khakis should do the trick.
On the other hand, jobs like taking inventory at a store require more casual wear. For this, you can put on a polo shirt with a pair of dress slacks.
Alternatively, you can also wear a dress shirt and dark jeans.
That’s why it’s crucial that you read through the job description thoroughly. Then, you can reach out to the hiring manager to see if they have specific guidelines for attire.
What Not to Wear to an Interview as a Teenager
Now that we talked about what to wear, we can move on to what to avoid when choosing your interview outfit.
Open-Toed Shoes
Shoes are one of the first elements of an outfit that a potential employer will look at. That’s because we can tell a lot about an applicant from their footwear.
For example, open-toed shoes are incredibly informal and relaxed. So, wearing them to an interview may signal that a candidate isn’t taking the meeting seriously.
Besides that, sandals and flip-flops aren’t all that practical. They may make it harder for applicants to display their skill set.
Even if you’re going to work by the beach, it’s best to stay away from open-toed shoes during the interview.
Ripped or Tight Clothing
Ripped clothing is a major fashion trend that’s been around for many years. Although, that doesn’t mean they’re appropriate for every occasion.
For instance, many companies prohibit their workers from wearing distressed garments. This is in an effort to unify the overall look of the staff.
In addition, ripped clothing may make an applicant seem disheveled and under-prepared.
Other than that, it’s also a good idea to steer clear of tight clothing. While they may be acceptable in some workplaces, they can be uncomfortable.
Crop Tops
Crop tops are a controversial topic in the workplace. Some people consider them appropriate if you style them correctly.
That means wearing high-rise formal dress pants to hide the exposed midriff.
On the other hand, many companies think crop tops don’t belong in a professional environment.
That means there’s a chance the interviewer may not like the outfit. For that reason, it’s best practice to avoid these short garments altogether.
Hoodies
Hoodies are a great way to cuddle up and stay warm in the winter. Yet, they don’t follow proper interview etiquette.
That’s because of the hood that goes over your head. This can signal that an applicant is insecure and that they have something to hide.
On top of that, hoodies are informal and don’t lend themselves to a workplace setting.
Shorts
Shorts may be comfortable, but they’re also one of the most informal articles of clothing on our list. They make applicants seem like they just crawled out of bed for the interview.
This will hurt a candidate’s chances of landing a position.
Besides, shorts aren’t practical for every job. Some tasks are almost impossible to do with your legs out in the air.
Athletic Attire
Wearing a tracksuit for an interview may seem like a good idea since it’s comfortable and functional.
However, the garment isn’t suitable for all workplaces.
If you’re applying for a job at a gym or wellness facility, then athletic clothes may be appropriate. Other than that, they’re too informal for most professional environments.
That’s why it may be worth your while to call human resources and figure out the best attire.
Big Logos or Words
During an interview, you want the hiring manager to focus on every word you have to say. This can be a little tricky to do if they’re spending time trying to read what’s on your outfit.
That’s why many employers recommend that candidates avoid big logos or text.
This way, there are fewer distractions in the room and your skills can speak for themselves.
Too Much Makeup
Makeup is a great way to hide small imperfections or blemishes. This can make you seem more alert and ready to take on the meeting.
Sadly, too many cosmetics can have the opposite effect. When an applicant packs on makeup, it gives the interviewer the impression that they’re vain.
Other than that, wearing too much makeup can seem like the applicant is trying to hide something. That’ll significantly impact the candidate’s ability to impress the hiring manager.
Anything Too Revealing
When applying for a job, you want to let the interviewer know that you’re responsible and dependable. This can be a challenge to do when the candidate is wearing revealing clothes.
They’re a source of distraction and may leave the employer feeling uncomfortable. That’s why modesty is key when you’re going through the interview process.
As a general rule, you should avoid plunging necklines and high slits.
Headphones
Music is an excellent way to calm your nerves before an important meeting. For that reason, many candidates will wear headphones before the event.
Although applicants must take them off before they walk into the interview room. Otherwise, the employer may assume that the candidate doesn’t care about the meeting.
In addition, the earbuds will make it much more difficult to listen to the interviewer. This can cause a few communication issues.
The only time headphones are acceptable is during a phone or video interview.
Why Is Appropriate Attire Important?
As humans, we use clothes to express our personalities and individuality. That means your attire will affect how other people perceive you.
When you walk into a meeting, the first thing the interviewer will notice is your outfit. They’ll examine the attire for signs that you’re a good fit with the company culture.
For example, they’ll look to see if your interview clothes are formal and match the other workers. Plus, interviewers will check to see if your garments are well-ironed with no stains.
So, your attire will determine the employer’s first impression of you. On top of that, they signal your professionalism and that you’re serious about the job.
How Do Teens Prepare for Their First Interview?
Before walking into your first interview, there are a few tips you can follow to make the most out of your time.
Here are some of the best practices for job interview prep.
Do Your Research
The most crucial step in preparing for an interview is to do your homework. You have to collect as much information about the company and the hiring manager as you can.
This will help you stay calm during the nerve-racking meeting.
Besides that, read through the job description closely. It’s also a good idea to underline sections that you think you’d excel at.
That way, you know what to talk about when the interviewer asks you about your strengths.
Prepare Questions
Once you’re done researching, you can move on to preparing questions. These are queries for the interviewer or hiring manager.
Most candidates like asking about the job duties and compensation packages.
Practice
To give yourself the best shot of acing an interview, you have to practice with a friend. Not only will this help you manage your nerves, but it’ll make you seem more confident.
Aside from that, this will also help you predict what type of questions the interviewer may ask.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Okay to Wear Jeans to an Interview?
The answer to this question will depend on the type of interview you’re heading into. In a formal meeting, jeans are never a good idea.
Yet, some companies have a more business casual dress code, so you can wear dark jeans.
When in doubt, ask human resources or the hiring manager ahead of time.
Can You Wear a Hoodie to an Interview?
Hoodies are not appropriate for most work environments. They make it seem like applicants have something to hide, which will hurt their chances of getting a job.
Wrapping Up
Figuring out what to wear to an interview as a teenager can be challenging. Thankfully, there are a couple of tips you can follow to make the process easier.
First off, most job applicants should dress in formal wear. Although there are a few exceptions to this rule.
If you’re not sure about the dress code, call the hiring manager and politely ask.
Besides that, it’s a good idea to stay away from shorts, hoodies, and crop tops. Plus, steer clear of open-toed shoes and ripped or tight clothing.
Finally, before you head into an interview, it’s crucial that you prepare sufficiently. Do that by researching the company, preparing questions, and practicing with a friend.
If you have any more questions about what to wear, be sure to leave us a comment.
