Do I need a suit???

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I am a new grad and hope to be interviewing this summer. Do I really need asuit? They are so expensive and it is so hot out though I would deal with it for a good job and a good impression. If so, does anyone have any suggestions on where ot get an affordable one that will fit my long arms and legs? Hee Hee. I'm in the Boston area. Also, open toes dress shoes appropriate or a no no? Thanks for any advice!

Hello all,

I have been interviewing recently and I have one suit outfit. If you are on the plus size end like me and you haven't discovered Lane Bryant yet, then that is a place to get your suits too. Seperates are available, because we all know that one size does not fit all! I got my suit for $120 and my shoes for $80. I wear a size 11 wide, so I save up for shoes! :) The blouse was 14.00 on sale. I wish everyone luck in the adventures of interviewing.

Amelia, New Grad RN

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Specializes in FNP, Peds, Epilepsy, Mgt., Occ. Ed.

The best advice that I ever saw was to dress as if you're applying for the position of CEO.

You only need one suit, and thrift stores/outlet stores are your best bet.

Black, navy, very dark gray, nice blouse, flat or low-heeled closed-toe shoes, minimal jewelry, conservative hair/makeup, no perfume. No long/bright or dark nails. Neutral hose if you wear a skirt. Skirt knee-length or longer. I don't think you can make an unfavorable impression by being dressed professionally.

Make sure your clothes and shoes are comfortable, however. It's hard to look confident and self-assured if your feet hurt or your blouse itches you! I also advise sitting down when trying on your clothes before buying. You don't want something that looks fine standing but does something wierd when you sit down (gaps, pulls too tight, bunches, etc. If you're wearing a skirt I'd carry an extra pair of pantyhose in your purse (which also needs to be conservative and not carrying anything you don't need).

And be sure to turn your cell phone off!! I forgot once and had it ring in the middle of an interview, and it was a wrong number at that!!

Chew your gum or suck on your mint before the interview, not during.

Try to arrive a few minutes early and scout out a bathroom. It's also hard to appear confident and self-assured when you've "gotta go."

Write thank-you letters afterward. That can make the difference in who gets a position if all else is equal.

Good luck!

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Specializes in Med/Surg.

this may help. http://featuredreports.monster.com/firstimpression/interviewinsights/

best of luck!!! :icon_hug:

oh!!! make sure to get there early and pee before you go into the interview. take some listerine breath strips too.

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Thank you all so much for all of the great advice. I've decided I will invest in a suit. Since I am very tall I will pay a little more and invest in a nice suit from J Crew and I am sure it will come in handy for me again sometime in my life-maybe when I am trying to buy a house or something! Thanks again!

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Thank you all so much for all of the great advice. I've decided I will invest in a suit. Since I am very tall I will pay a little more and invest in a nice suit from J Crew and I am sure it will come in handy for me again sometime in my life-maybe when I am trying to buy a house or something! Thanks again!

You will not regret this investment. Good luck on your interview! Let us know what happens!

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I chose a grey pantsuit, loafer-style shoes and dark socks. I had a short haircut and no makeup. I had a good feeling in this outfit.

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I'm a new grad, and I typically interview in Gray/Tan/or Brown trousers, a button down shirt, closed toe shoes with a moderate heel. It must have worked, cause I just accepted a position.

Remember. Small post earrings, lite make-up, clean nails (clear polish if any). No or very little perfume.

Always bring copies of resume, a pen, a firm handshake, and a great smile.

Best of luck!!!

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