What Hiring Managers Should Wear (& What NOT to Wear) to a Job Interview

What hiring managers wear to a job interview can significantly impact how job candidates and others perceive them. 

Job interviews are a hiring manager’s time to evaluate talent and entice top talent to join the organization. While job candidates get most of the attention when it comes to what they should wear during the interview, what the interviewer wears is important, too.

In a previous blog, we talked about what candidates should wear to a job interview. Here, our healthcare recruiters thought we’d flip the script and look at this topic from the other side. As a hiring manager, you are a representative of the organization. You need to make a good first impression and be a reflection of the company culture. 

In this blog, we’ll discuss:

• What should hiring managers wear to a job interview? 6 attire tips
• What should hiring managers NOT wear to a job interview? 4 clothing no-nos

What should hiring managers wear to a job interview? 6 Attire tips

Hiring managers should present a polished and professional appearance by wearing formal business attire such as a well-tailored suit, paired with a crisp button-down shirt or blouse. Well-fitted dress trousers or an appropriate skirt, complemented by clean dress shoes in black or dark brown, help create a refined look. 

Accessories should be kept minimal and tasteful, with only simple items like a wristwatch or subtle jewelry. Equally important is maintaining good grooming and personal hygiene, including neat hair, trimmed nails, and well-kept facial hair, to ensure a professional and confident impression.

Here are 6 tips for what hiring managers should wear when interviewing job candidates:

1. Business Attire: Hiring managers should generally wear formal business attire to project a professional image. This typically includes a well-tailored suit in a neutral colour such as black, navy blue, or gray.
2. Button-Down Shirt or Blouse: A crisp, button-down shirt or blouse in a solid colour is appropriate for both male and female hiring managers. It should be neatly pressed and fit well.
3. Well-Fitted Trousers or Skirt: Men should wear well-fitted dress trousers, while women can opt for a skirt or dress pants. The pants or skirt should be of an appropriate length and fit well.
4. Dress Shoes: Hiring managers should wear dress shoes that are in good condition. Black or dark brown leather shoes are a safe choice and should be paired with dark-coloured socks.
5. Minimal Accessories: Keep accessories to a minimum. A simple wristwatch and discreet jewelry, if any, can add a touch of elegance. Avoid excessive or distracting accessories.
6. Grooming and Personal Hygiene: Pay attention to grooming and personal hygiene. Make sure your hair is neatly styled, your nails are clean and trimmed, and any facial hair is well-groomed.

What should hiring managers NOT wear to a job interview? 4 clothing no-nos

Hiring managers should avoid overly casual, revealing, or ill-fitting clothing, casual footwear, and excessive accessories to maintain a polished and professional appearance during interviews.

Here are four things to avoid: 

1. Casual Attire: Avoid wearing casual clothes such as jeans, t-shirts, sweatshirts, or sneakers. While some workplaces may have a more relaxed dress code, it’s important for hiring managers to set a professional tone.
2. Revealing or Ill-Fitting Clothing: Avoid clothing that is too revealing, tight-fitting, or ill-fitting. Clothing should be comfortable, professional, and appropriate for a business setting.
3. Casual Footwear: Skip casual footwear such as flip-flops, sandals, or athletic shoes. Instead, opt for polished dress shoes that are appropriate for a professional environment.
4. Excessive Jewelry or Accessories: While some accessories can enhance your outfit, too much jewelry or accessories can be distracting. Keep it simple and understated.

A final word about how hiring managers should dress for a job interview

Hiring managers play a key role in shaping a candidate’s impression of the company. By dressing in a way that is professional, polished, and consistent with organizational culture, you demonstrate respect for the process and help create a positive interview experience. A well-considered appearance ensures that the focus remains where it belongs. 

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