The National Association of Colleges and Employers conducted a survey and indicated that over 49 percent of hiring decisions are influenced by what the candidate wears. Your knowledge, experience and professionalism should be foremost in an employer’s mind, but we are only human and visually oriented individuals; so preparing your professional attire ahead of time for the interview is of prime importance.

Prepare for the interview with your career goals in mind. Whether you are an architect, civil engineer or construction manager, start the process off with the goal of making a great first impression. It shows planning, dedication and reliability. Research the organization, company culture and typical attire employees wear within their organizations. This will provide you some guidance as to what to wear for your interview.  By dressing to match a corporate culture this will create a common ground for the rest of the meeting. Your choices also will show your level of professionalism and seriousness regarding your future in the company.

Skilled, knowledgeable employees are essential to growing and maintaining a reputable, profitable business. Convince them you possess these abilities and their organization will benefit. Slacks and a blouse or nice shirt indicate you are willing to solve problems and tackle the job. This will allow them to imagine you in the job engineering and supervising their projects to completion.

Arrive to your interview with polished shoes, pressed attire and a positive attitude. It displays your professionalism and will come across significantly during a person to person meeting. Should you desire to dress formally, choose an appropriate suit or dress; Confidence and value is of importance;  peers, managers and supervisors all notice the littlest details.

Myjobhelper.com has a handy graphic that displays what to wear for an interview when you are in doubt.

Professionally minded individuals, who dress appropriately and have the experience allows you standout in a crowded pool of applicants. Whether the interview is in person or through Skype, the right attire controls the first and last impression you make; so present yourself with professionalism and confidence.

Michael DeSafey is a leading executive recruiter for professionals in the construction, engineering and environmental industries. He is currently the President of Webuild Staffing www.webuildstaffing.com . To learn more about Michael or to follow his Blog please visit www.michaeldesafey.com