Attire for interview

[nurse2033, MSN, RN]

I just want to pass this on... I have seen a lot of threads about clothing for interviews. I just got a pretty awesome educator job and am being oriented by a number of people who were in my interview. The competition for this job was much more intense than I knew. There were some pretty heavy hitters who interviewed as well (but apparently didn't take the interview as seriously as I did). One of my new coworkers told me I had the job when I walked in with a suit and briefcase. She said my appearance was by far the most professional. I'm not talking about some college professor blazer over jeans. When I bought this suit I told the salesman I want to look exactly like a prosecuting attorney, and it has served me very well. Anyway, I hope this advice helps...

[double_minority]

Will try that ;-)

[apozepam, MSN]

I agree -- coupled with a good shirt and shoes, a nice, tailored suit can go a long way. What you described is my standard interview attire, and some friends can't believe I go "all out." However, I, too, have been complemented by interview panels and feel that I may have exceled above some interviewees simply because I was diligent enough to consider my dress. Everyone really should take a senior seminar on job hunting, resume building, and interview etiquette prior to graduating!

[Baubo516, RN]

nurse2033 - what would be the equivalent of the suit for a female? Should we also wear suits? I usually try to wear dress pants or a skirt and a nice blouse, but have not always included a jacket or blazer.

[MrChicagoRN, RN]

It really depends on the position, but you always need to look good.

The higher the position, the better you need to be dressed.

As soon as I saw "educator" position, I thought suit.

[Esme12, ASN, BSN, RN]

nurse2033 - what would be the equivalent of the suit for a female? Should we also wear suits? I usually try to wear dress pants or a skirt and a nice blouse, but have not always included a jacket or blazer.

there are suits for women. The more professional you look the better. Clean shoes. Hair neatly done. Little makeup.

[NurseDirtyBird]

Suits and (sensible) pumps for me too. I've never been turned down for a position I interviewed for when I wear them. Conservative is always the way to go for interviews.

[apozepam, MSN]

I think nice dress pants or a conservative skirt with a nice blouse and decent shoe is perfect! However, I agree with Esme12 -- easy on the makeup and, since you're in nursing, ensure your nails are well groomed (nothing too flashy or extremely long fake nails). In other words, look professional and show them you know how to present yourself well on the other end of patient care. Try Banana Republic for a "female" suit. If you want to keep the cost down, you can always pop into a discount chain store (Kohl's, for example) or try your local outlet mall. Best of luck!

[AmyRN303, BSN, RN]

The Limited has nice suits for women....and they're on sale online. Some sizes in some colors are unavailable but if you can find matching ones in your size, the price is great. I need to check out Kohl's too.

[That Guy, BSN, RN, EMT-B]

Suit up! I love actually wearing suits since we never get to at work. Im excited to look for a new job because its another excuse to have to dress nice.

[Spinmass, ADN, BSN, RN, EMT-B]

I think it stands true that whenever you present yourself in a well tailored suit with an air of professionalism, you are taken more seriously. Not just for interviews but in many different scenarios.

[charli_appleRN]

I always wear a suit but I'm curious to know what it is that your carry in the briefcase? My school made us put together a portfolio but I haven't taken it on any interviews. Now that you've mentioned it, I guess it would look better pulling my resume out of my portfolio rather than a folder...lol