What to wear to a job interview when it's 100 degrees outside?

[MKPRN]

I recently found out my unit is closing and I am now on the hunt for a new job. I have not been on a job interview in over 12 years. I am applying for hospital jobs. PreOp nurse, Mother-Baby floor position etc. It is now summer and beastly hot. Any ideas on what is appropriate? I don't have a lot of dress clothes. I was thinking black slacks with pumps. What type of top?

[Altra, BSN, RN]

Conservative business attire, which is what is appropriate for interviews, doesn't change considerably with the seasons. You can lighten the colors & fabrics but the basics don't change.

Your interview is unlikely to be conducted outside where it's 100 degrees.

[Morainey, BSN, RN]

Short-sleeved blouse would do the trick, as long as it fits well and isn't too casual.

[AnonRNC]

Arrive early so you can cool off in the AC and stop sweating before your interview. Consider using a public bathroom (off the main lobby/entrance) to change into your clothes if you're SURE you won't be seen in casual attire.

[Morainey, BSN, RN]

That occurred to be also, but when, what do you do with your casual clothes?!

[noyesno, MSN, APRN, NP]

A bathing suit.

Just kidding.

A business suit.

[RNperdiem, RN]

Remember, the hotter the temperature outside, the more the arctic blast from the overly air-conditioned interiors will freeze you.

If you are interviewing in one of those places in the southeast or that has hot summers, be prepared for both extremes.

I top like a light weight sweater set in cotton, silk or a linen blend would go well with the black pants.

[LadyFree28, BSN, LPN, RN]

I have been pounding the pavement for interviews, and it has been hot in my area, strangely, during my interview days. I still wear my business casual attire, and either wore linen pants, or a light summer sweater or blouse.

[HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD]

There has actually been a lot of research related to this - LOL, I'm a nurse so I always fall back on evidence-based practice.

You want to exude confidence, competence & authority. First impressions are very important. Jackets indicate "authority", regardless of gender. Women are lucky because we can use "jacket-ish" garments to achieve the same goal. A very lightweight jersey/knit or sweater with 3/4 sleeves is great as long as it coordinates with your outfit. Slacks are fine as long as they fit well. No sneakers or bare arms. Linen or natural fibers are not great because they wilt and wrinkle easily - synthetic blends are best. Avoid very bright colors. Prints are OK if they are subtle. No perfume. Enough makeup to avoid scaring children, but not enough for clubbing.

Now for the confidence - you need to appear calm, collected. I have close relatives in the performing arts... they assure me that deliberately 'thinking at' another person can produce a message that is picked up through facial expression & eye contact. So, when you meet your interviewers, think something like "I am the best nurse you will ever meet. You will be lucky to have me". Srsly - it does work.

Competence-wise, be very organized. Show up at least 10 minutes early. Have some clean copies of your resume in a folder. Names & addresses of your personal references at hand. Personal schedule/calendar available in case they want to schedule a follow up interview or activity.

Go get 'em! You CAN do this!!!