Job application tips on clothing: making the right impression on your future employer

A job interview is the moment to present yourself at your best. Your preparation is, of course, important: you research the company, practice possible questions, and ask a few good questions in return. But one element is often underestimated: your choice of clothing. What you wear during a job interview is often the first thing an employer notices. Within a few seconds, someone forms a first impression, and your outfit plays a big role in that. Therefore, we provide some practical interview tips for clothing, so you can enter the conversation with confidence and with the right appearance.

Why is clothing so important at a job interview?

Your clothing is a visual translation of who you are and what you project. Appearing professional, well-groomed, and appropriately dressed shows that you take the conversation seriously. It says something about your preparation, attention to detail, and sense of context. Moreover, the right clothing can help you feel more confident. And that confidence then radiates in your posture, manner of speaking, and your interaction with the interviewer.

What should you wear to a job interview? It depends on the sector

There is no “one-size-fits-all” outfit for interviews. The right clothing depends on the industry, the role, and the company culture. Let’s take a look at a few sectors:

Corporate sector

In the corporate sector, formal interview attire is standard. For men, this means a neat suit with a shirt and proper shoes. For women, a trouser suit with a blouse or a business dress is suitable, possibly with a blazer. The goal is a tidy, representative appearance that conveys professionalism.

Engineering and manufacturing

In engineering and manufacturing, a neat pair of jeans or chinos with a shirt or blouse often suffices. Avoid sportswear or sneakers with bright colors. This is about a polished yet practical appearance that fits the work environment.
We specifically focus on sectors such as transportation and logistics, construction, manufacturing, engineering, utilities, and the maritime industry. In these sectors, it’s important that interview clothing not only looks professional but is also practical and suitable for the daily work setting. A good first impression starts with clothing that conveys both your commitment and your understanding of the sector.

Creative sector

The creative sector allows more room for personal style. Yet it’s important to choose a professional outfit that subtly shows your creativity, such as smart jeans with a blazer. This combines professionalism with your own touch.

Healthcare and wellbeing

Comfort and approachability are central in healthcare and wellbeing. Choose muted colors and clothing that conveys trust, but is also practical and comfortable. This makes you come across as professional and approachable.

Although interview attire can vary greatly by sector, we notice in our practice—especially in construction, logistics, and engineering—that a neat and well-groomed, yet practical outfit often makes the right impression. You will rarely need a full suit with us, but attention to hygiene, clean hands, and a fresh appearance we do consider very important.

General, broadly applicable tips for clothing in applications

Regardless of the sector you’re applying in, there are a number of universal dress guidelines you can always keep in mind:

Choose to look well-groomed and clean. It may seem obvious, but we’ll say it anyway. Ensure your clothes are freshly washed, ironed, and free of stains or lint. Your shoes should be clean and undamaged.
Dress a bit more formally than too casual. If you’re between two outfits, opt for the neater choice. You can always remove a blazer if the conversation turns informal, but you can’t suddenly look more formal if you appear too casual.
Pay attention to colors and accessories. Choose calm, neutral colors such as blue, gray, white, or beige. These colors convey reliability and professionalism. Avoid busy patterns or bright colors unless they fit the sector. Keep accessories subtle: a watch, simple jewelry, or a neat bag.
Be yourself. Clothing should fit you. If you feel dressed up in your outfit, you’ll project that as well. So choose something you feel comfortable in and that also comes across as professional.

What you would do better to avoid

Sometimes it helps to know what you should not wear. Here are a number of clothing choices you’d be better off leaving out during a job interview:

Sportswear or sweatpants
T-shirts with large logos or text
Ripped jeans, even if it’s “fashion”
Visible piercings or tattoos, unless you’re sure this wouldn’t be an issue at the company
Slippers or open-toed shoes
Too much perfume or aftershave

Are you soon to be invited to a job interview with BUZ Personeelsdiensten? With these clothing tips you’ll make a strong first impression right away. Whether you’re applying for a position in construction, administration, or engineering, a well-groomed appearance will always help you move forward. Do you have questions about the application process or would you like to know which vacancies currently match your profile? Feel free to contact us or browse our open vacancies. We’re happy to think along with you about the next step in your career.