What to wear for job interview

mrsboots87 · Oct 23, 2013

I have heard from many, that most of the time business attire is best, with business casual being ok is some cases. I have heard hear and there of really nice regular clothing, but its not often, and I personally would not want to do it. Nice pair of slacks or dress skirt, with a shirt and cardigan, or nice blouse, or blouse with suit jacket. Something along those likes. Keep makeup classy and minimal, but still nicely done (if you wear makeup of course), heels or a nice pair of flats (leather or the like), minimal jewelry and hair done nicely, Paint nails a light or neutral color. If male, slacks with a nice button up and possibly a suit jacket.

This is just what I would wear to an interview. Also, maybe see if you can ask other employees what they wore to interview, or you can even ask HR what is expected for interview attire so you aren't over/under dressed. GL!

nurseprnRN, BSN, RN · Oct 23, 2013

What you would expect a nurse would wear to an interview: Nice jacket and skirt or slacks freshly cleaned and not Febreze-d, conservative blouse (no peekaboo lingerie or ink :) ), hose, well-cleaned and polished flats or low heels, no sandals. Hair up, not straggling. Minimal makeup and less jewelry, and if you wear acrylics or polish, now's the time to get rid of it because you can't wear it in patient care areas anyway. No perfume or perfume-y cosmetics. Nice bag, not a backpack. You don't need to go to the Coach store, but give a critical eye to what it looks like.

Bring a copy of your resume and CNA certificate in an envelope in case you get asked for it.

And although I know it's very trendy to say it that way, you will not "graduate nursing school." Schools graduate students; students graduate from schools.

Good luck!!

Stephalump · Oct 23, 2013

I stressed SO much about what to wear on my job interviews. I wanted to wear something like a pant suit, but I wasn't in a position to buy one.

So, and don't laugh...

I wore scrubs.

Got job offers both times.

I will be splurging on a nice interview outfit after I graduate, though.

rubato, ASN, RN · Oct 23, 2013

I have a couple of pairs of slacks and some nice blouses. I always try to look presentable (not too much makeup, hair neat and clean, and clothes pressed), so no worries there. I will see what I can throw together for a jacket.

GrnTea-thank you for the correction. You are, of course, right. I have huge complaints with today's use of the English language, so I won't make that mistake again. :)

RNstudent13renee · Oct 23, 2013

I wore business casual. Slacks and a button up blouse that were solid colors, low closed toed heels, hair up in a sleek ponytail, nice but minimal makeup, basic jewelry (earrings and watch...) I got the job. I also brought my resume, the checkoffs I had completed in my nursing program, and my CPR certification. She made copies of them and was glad I brought them. Good luck!

StudentOfHealing · Oct 23, 2013

I have a couple of pairs of slacks and some nice blouses. I always try to look presentable (not too much makeup, hair neat and clean, and clothes pressed), so no worries there. I will see what I can throw together for a jacket.
GrnTea-thank you for the correction. You are, of course, right. I have huge complaints with today's use of the English language, so I won't make that mistake again. :)

I've seen you on AN before... always assumed you were a man...

woops xD

Meriimi · Oct 23, 2013

For my tech position interview I wore nice slacks and a nice sweater. I didn't own any suits or blazers and I couldn't really afford to get one. While clothing is important, it is really important that you focus on your interview material. Know something about the place you are applying to - for example, know their mission and values and maybe something they are great at. Make sure you are prepared with at least one or two questions so that when they ask you about questions you are not feeling put on the spot. My questions usually include if I can do additional learning in the division of nursing I'm in. This might be inservices, getting certified as a tech in whatever type of nursing your floor is, etc. If you can show a lot of interest and really let them know what you will bring to the table for them it will make a good impression. Good luck, I hope you get the job!

rubato, ASN, RN · Oct 23, 2013

I've seen you on AN before... always assumed you were a man...
woops xD

So funny! Nope, I'm about as female as they come. Love it though!