It's often said that we should dress to impress when interviewing for a job, going to job fairs or meeting with a prospective employer. Also, we're told to wear conservative colors such as brown, blue or grey. Is this a myth? Do employers prefer a certain style? Whatever the reason, erring on the side of a caution when meeting with a prospective employer couldn't hurt.

     In fact, the article Grooming for Employment  sites a survey that states 95% of employers interviewed said a job seeker's personal appearance impacted their opinion of an applicant's suitability for the job and 91 % of employers believe that a job seeker appearance during an interview reflects their attitude towards the company. Therefore, seize the opportunity to make a great first impression that is memorable and not unforgettable. Remember that your appearance may signal the following:

• Respect: Employers want to know that you are one that will follow the rules and your dress is a good indicator. You have little time to make a great first impression. For example, if you're working in healthcare or food service and the job requires that you wear minimal jewelry during work hours, don't come to the interview with long dangling earrings. This could be distracting to a prospective employer. Instead opt for a small earrings and a single piece of jewelry such as a bracelet or pendent that could accent an outfit.  

• Professionalism: Dressing appropriately is a must when talking with prospective employers. Your appearance could decide whether the employer will take you seriously. For example, if you're attending a job fair, don't waste an employer's time talking with them about a job if you look like you just rolled out of bed. Flip flops, tank tops, saggy pants, jeggings, head scarves (other than religious purposes), pajama pants, short skirts, shorts, etc. are not acceptable. Your appearance could signal to them that you're really not interested in working, you're lazy, you don't pay attention to detail, and you may need close supervision and can't make good decisions.

     If possible, learn the dress code prior to interviewing for a particular job and make sure that you have appropriate attire for the type of job for which you are applying. Most companies may have a business casual environment for positions in retail, construction or manufacturing type jobs. However, professional positions (finance, education, healthcare, or government positions) require a more conservative look that includes a tie and a suit for men and dresses or slacks, coordinated blouse and blazer for women. Conservative colors such as browns, greys, blues are preferred because it's not distracting. Trendy colors and patterns might be a distraction to a prospective employer.  

     Also, employers believe that people who wear conservative colors (browns, greys and neutrals) are the ones, in their opinion, to be the most organized, dependable and the more logical thinkers, according Debra Auerbach's  article What Your Interview Clothing Color Says About You. Remember if you're hired to work for a company, you are an extension of that company and what they believe. As the saying goes, "a picture is worth a thousand words".