Interview Attire? Suit or no Suit...that is the question...

[RiverRunner]

Fellow L & D RNs-

I have an interview with the Nurse Manager on an L & D floor on Tuesday. I am wondering if it is appropriate to wear a suit. I am worried about being overdressed, but I also realize the importance of portraying the profession of nursing professionally. I would appreciate your input.

Thanks so much!

MN RN:specs:

[SmilingBluEyes]

I never wore a "suit" to an interview, but rather, a nice dress and conservative jewelry and makeup. Never wore any perfume or scents or nail polish. Got the position each time I tried this way.

[imanedrn]

I once sat in on an interview where the candidate wore--get this--jeans with holes in the knees. This was for a RN position in the ER. I just thought it was so unbelievably unprofessional. There is nothing wrong with putting forth a college effort and looking very professional. You show the interviewers that you are serious about the job when you dress well.

It still amazes me when I see this -- anywhere!

My husband and I were eating lunch at The Macaroni Grill (sit-down restaurant, kinda' nice but not over-the-top). I think they were doing a hiring/interview meeting because there were a bunch of people sitting in the bar area filling out applications. Anyway... most of them were dressed like they were going to the mall: t-shirts and jeans! Others were wearing khaki pants, some business casual, but not a suit to be found. I was amazed! I mean, I know this isn't a super fancy restaurant or anything, but, as others have said, what about putting your best foot forward?! I don't know if people have gotten lazier or it's just society in general?...

[Nurse Salt]

It still amazes me when I see this -- anywhere!

My husband and I were eating lunch at The Macaroni Grill (sit-down restaurant, kinda' nice but not over-the-top). I think they were doing a hiring/interview meeting because there were a bunch of people sitting in the bar area filling out applications. Anyway... most of them were dressed like they were going to the mall: t-shirts and jeans! Others were wearing khaki pants, some business casual, but not a suit to be found. I was amazed! I mean, I know this isn't a super fancy restaurant or anything, but, as others have said, what about putting your best foot forward?! I don't know if people have gotten lazier or it's just society in general?...

I worked for a company once that told us specifically NOT to hire anyone wearing a suit... They said it didn't fit with the "image" of the company.