Guys - what did you wear for interview?

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I have been taking nursing interviews for a first job out of school and need some advice. I am older (45yrs) and am concerned that I looked too "corporate" in previous interviews by wearing both a jacket and tie. While I'm sure that dress alone was not the only reason I was not offered a position, I'm thinking that for the next one (on Thursday) I should loose either the jacket or tie. Do you think it matters? I do like to dress well, but I think it might be not a helpful thing during a nursing interview.

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Specializes in Case mgmt., rehab, (CRRN), LTC & psych.

I see nothing wrong with a polished business casual look (collared shirt, slacks, dress shoes, wristwatch) if you are interviewing for a front line staff nurse position. However, if you are interviewing for a supervisory or managerial position, I'd up the ante by showing up to the interview in a full suit and tie.

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Specializes in Critical Care Transport.

I just recently have been interviewing for new opportunities in my area. I don't see the need for an entire suit for a staff nurse position as the previous poster mentioned. That said, I would still wear a tie. You may be able to pull off a "polished business casual" but I personally would wear a tie with shirt, pants, and nice shoes. I haven't had any complaints yet and all three positions have asked me back this coming week for second interviews with peers. I will continue to wear a tie to each interview I attend. Hope this helps. Good luck!!

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Thank you Medic2 and Commuter! It sounds like I should ditch the jacket since this interview is for a staff nurse position. Now I have to work on the questions that are going to be thrown at me!

BTW- This site has been an excellent resource for me. Now that I have passed NCLEX and will hopefully start working soon, I plan on contributing more often. Thanks guys!

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Specializes in Critical Care, Emergency Care.

I wore shirt and tie. I agree, ditch the jacket.

PJ, RN, EMT-P

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Without a doubt, dress shirt & tie. And I would strongly consider a suit.

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I wore a suit and got a second interview. I'd like to think it helped.

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