What teens should wear on an interview 🌻

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Career Guide / Interviewing / What a High School Student Should Wear to a Job Interview

INTERVIEWING What a High School Student Should Wear to a Job Interview February 22, 2021 By: Indeed Editorial Team High school students may look for a part-time or seasonal position to help earn additional income in addition to getting exposure to the workplace. Some jobs that are available to high school students include positions in the service industry, such as restaurants or retail stores. High school students can also be babysitters, dogsitters or work for a volunteer organization. Nevertheless, if you're interviewing for one of these positions, be sure to dress appropriately for the occasion. In this article, we outline the importance of high school students wearing the right outfit for a job interview as well as noting what you can and cannot wear. Why is wearing the right outfit to a job interview important? Wearing the right outfit for an interview shows that you're prepared for the interview and highlights a level of maturity that's suitable for the position. A polished look for an interview also implies responsibility and a willingness to work. Related: How to Dress for a Job Interview What to wear to a job interview Teenagers have plenty of options to select for interview attire, including: Button-down shirt with dark slacks or khakis Interviewing for a position tailored to high school students often doesn't require you to wear a suit. A button-down with a simple design paired with khaki pants can show you are organized and neat. This outfit can give the interviewer the perception that you thoughtfully prepared for your interview. Polo shirt with skirt or slacks Be mindful of the season when you're interviewing. Some positions for high school students may be seasonal jobs, so be ready to dress for warm or cold weather depending on your geographical location and time of year. For summer, a polo shirt with a skirt or slacks suffices for most seasonal jobs. Since a polo shirt is more casual, ensure that you're wearing a stylish skirt or slacks and that your polo shirt is tucked in to demonstrate professionalism during the interview. Button-down shirt with a sweater and khakis If your interview requires a more elevated style, a button-down shirt and sweater combined with khakis is a good option. It's a step up from a polo, but it's not as dressy as a suit and a tie. You can keep a few combinations of sweaters and button-downs in your wardrobe to be prepared for multiple social events. Polo shirt with dark slacks and khakis The key to wearing dark slacks and khakis is to match the color of the slacks to the belt and shoes you're wearing for the interview. A mismatch of color between these items is more difficult to pull together for a neat appearance. Brown loafers, dress shoes and a belt pair well with dark khakis and the polo you choose to wear. Button-down shirt and a cardigan with dress pants You can also opt for a button-down with an additional accessory to have your outfit stand out, like a cardigan. These items pair well with navy blue pants, khaki pants or a skirt. Dress shirt and dark jeans A dress shirt is an ideal outfit for a job interview if you're a high school student. Depending on the type of employer, you may be able to wear dark jeans that complement the color and style of the dress shirt. Denim should be pressed and free of any holes or rips, and ensure there are no stains on your dress shirt before your interview. Always make sure to iron your shirt and tuck it in before speaking with the interviewer. Choose your tie wisely Depending on the position and work environment you're seeking, it might not hurt to wear a tie to your interview. Overdressing is usually not frowned upon in a professional setting, and it can show your desire and assertiveness for the role you're interviewing for. A solid button-down with a striped tie can give off the perception of professional attire, but you can also go with a plaid shirt and solid tie for a more casual workplace. This may require some research of the company before you proceed in wearing a tie to your next job interview. Rolling up your sleeves can be another consideration for you to look more casual.