Health and Human Services Professional Development

Dress for Interview Success by   Jill Bowers   on   July 6, 2013 Knowing whether or not the interviewer will perceive your attire as “appropriate” can contribute to your anxiety about a job interview. On one hand, attire is more casual today in many work environments than it was 15-20 years ago. On the other, you do not want to risk that you will be dressed too casually and appear as though you do not care about the job or lack knowledge about industry standards. A few tips you may want to consider: Find out what other employees are wearing , especially those in similar positions to the one in which you are applying If you are unsure,  it is better to be overdressed than underdressed ; for most positions, including internships, you should avoid jeans, t-shirts, or tennis shoes. You could also wear a jacket or sweater and take it off if the atmosphere appears more casual than what      you had thought. Press your clothes ; if you do not hav...

Types of Interviews by   Jill Bowers   on   June 3, 2013   Although you may generally think “Office” when you think of getting an interview, there are actually several types of interviews in which you could be asked to participate. For example, your interview could be over the phone or at a restaurant. How you dress and need to prepare may vary depending on the type of interview. See The Undercover Recruiter for  6 Interview Types you Must Know as a Candidate . Source:   http://theundercoverrecruiter.com/6-interview-types-you-must-know-candidate/ *Originally posted on the Career Skillet website (Permission granted by Jill Bowers).

You are what you wear? by   Jill Bowers   on   July 26, 2014   Does your attire really reveal your identity? Do your clothes affect your own mood or emotions? According to research, Yes! Studies have shown that personality and mood can be managed and reflected through one’s attire (Moody et al, 2010; Ruetzler et al, 2012). Yet, when individuals say, “dress appropriately” or “wear something professional,” do you understand what this is? To add to your confusion, sometimes “what is appropriate” can differ based on the event or occasion. The definition of professional or appropriate attire can also vary by service industry or the type of job. For example, business-casual in a setting in which you work with young children may mean to wear khaki pants and a polo shirt, something that allows you to get on the floor and work with young children. In a Fortune 100 company, however, khakis combined with the polo may be viewed as too informal. Thus, you have every right...