46 - Sunday, November 14, 1993 - North Shore News TALITY Interview style: put your wardrobe to the test FASHION STATEMENTS WHETHER IT is promo- tion time, or your company is trying to determine where to downsize, or you are looking for a new job, don’t dress the part of your old job when going for an in- -‘terview. =~ FREAD hr An interview puts all of your clothing style to the test. Rarely does a first impression count so heavily as at a job interview, when your future depends on it, If it has been several years since you had to prepare for an inter- view, you may need to take an objective look at the way you dress, and re-evaluate your work image. "Make yourself more visible and unforgettable by dressing the part of the job you intend to get. Down-playing your importance in a company by dressing modestly will not win points with any supe- rior. High visibility is a key to your success, If no one ever remembers you, or notices you in a crowd, nothing important can ever hap- pen. Research shows that most inter- viewers decide whether to hire a potential employee during the first five minutes, and therefore a substantial part of the decision is made through nonverbal cues. Crucial to winning out over competition at an interview is ef- PURSE SCRE CORT ZS FASH fective communication, shown by both your enthusiasm and your professional appearance. What you wear should express the same energy and confidence you plan to give your work. Here are some clothing strategies that can open doors: ® Wear the best quality you can afford in an updated, feminine suit or a tailored, sophisticated dress, Avoid menswear-in fluenced suits and separates. Don’t be afraid to wear color or pattern, as long as it’s in a sophisticated style. ® Dress comfortably. The suit should fit well with no areas that bind or pull. If you in- sist on Wearing pants to make you feel more relaxed, choose a stylish and feminine pantsuit. Make sure all buttons stay closed, that your slit doesn’t fly open and that you can walk easily in skirt and shoes. You don’t want fidgeting to be ‘mistaken for ner- vousness. » Since your fall coat will proba- bly be the first thing the inter- : viewer will see, make sure it is stylish, spotiessly clean, and long enough to look sophisticated over a suit. bm Accessories are important. Add only one statement-making accessory or piece of fashionable jewelry to add personality without overpowering the look. No jangly or evening picces should be worn. Make sure your shoes are up to date and in good condition, since this is one of the first items many employers look to for clues about your attitude. Wear sheer stockings, and bring an extra pair in your handbag because hose runs when you least expect it. ‘ & Prepare yourself for the inter- view. . Be sure to make eye contact Do a little research about the company before the interview because you will be expected to ask intelligent questions concern- ing it during the interview. Don’t worry about taking a few seconds before you answer a question, so that your answer sounds intelligent. Don't speak against a former employer; the new company doesn't want to consider that you may speak of it that way some day. Assume that every question is asked for a purpose, so don’t give half-hearted answers to something that seems irrelevant. throughout the interview. Shake hands both as you enter and leave the interview, Don't hesitate before you sit down. , Photos submitted A check belted jacket, $325, fong, slim skirt, $235, and wou! knit mock turtte, $120, from Ports Internaticnal’s fall-winter line are interview perfect. ' THE FASHIONABLE, feminine silhouette of this wool crepe riding jacket and skirt from Ports International is sure to get you noticed at work. Fashion Gallery Now Open In Park Royal South Featuring a wide range of hand \ beaded and crocheted fashion wear D Ek § { Gi N i R plus marching accessories for both ny Wn : . ‘ formal occasions and daywear. WEAR EUROPEAN LINES UNCOMPROMISING QUALITY FOR THE OISCERNING WOMAN. ALWAYS AT GREAT REDUCTIONS, ONLY AT These latest styles are brought to your direct form manufacturer at attractive prices. One of our unique offerings is collections of matching crochet vest, shawls.and handbags enmeshed with FOR THE PARTY LOOK we carry ead cads. beaded adn sequined tops. Genuine suvors- f ki crystal eacrings and hair accessories in f many colors. Elegant belts, and long gloves. FOR GIFT IDEAS A very good selection o” of novelty pins, scarves, gloves, Anne Klein | key chains and watches and mare. And we A will do the wrapping for you. Mborizile— | accessory boutique 926-6828 PARK ROYAL SOUTH 925-3682 — “ERRISDALE: 6272 East Blvd. (at West 47th Avs.) 261-8813 Open Sunday 12-5