Selecting an Appropriate Coat for Your Job Interview

In today's job market, the competition can be fierce. It is important to put your best foot forward. Unfortunately, you can spend hours selecting a professional interview outfit, only to ruin your first impression by wearing a less-than-professional coat. Showing up in a coat that is too casual or inappropriate for an interview can affect your chances at getting the job. Here are some tips to consider when choosing a coat for your interview.

• If you can't afford to buy a dress coat, consider borrowing. Dress coats can be expensive. Early in my career, I often wore my every day coat to interviews, because I simply couldn't afford to spend a lot of money on a dress coat. If you can't afford to purchase a dress coat, think of someone you may be able to borrow one from. Chances are you won't have to borrow it often, so you may be able to find a friend or family member who is willing to let you borrow a coat.
• If you can afford to buy a dress coat, you can save by shopping sales, or by shopping online. When I finally did realize that I absolutely needed a dress coat for interviews, I was able to snag a dressy coat online at overstock.com for about $50. You can often find professional-looking coats by shopping at online outlets. You can also check out the sales and clearance racks in stores to find great savings. If you look near the end of a season, many stores will be clearing their racks to make room for new stuff, allowing you to save a lot of money.
• Select a neutral color. Make sure to choose a color which will coordinate with any interview outfit you own. Choosing a neutral color like black, gray, or brown will assure that you will always be able to wear your coat to an interview.
• Select quality fabric and design. Make sure to select a fabric that lasts and looks professional. Avoid fabrics that will show wear easily. Be sure to also select a design which looks professional and is appropriate for the job you are interviewing for.
• Avoid extremes. Avoid extreme colors or designs. Even if certain colors or trends are currently in style, many employers view these styles to be inappropriate for the work place. It is best to avoid a negative impression altogether by simply selecting classic styles. Doing so will also ensure that you can use your coat for a long period of time.
• Select an appropriate size and length. Make sure that you select a coat which fits properly, and is neither too big nor too small. Make sure to also select a coat which is the appropriate length. When in doubt, select a longer style. Having a coat that is too short can look unprofessional.

Following these steps will allow you to select a coat which is appropriate for your job interview.