What to Wear in a Creative Interview

This is a question we often hear from design candidates we put forward for interview with our clients.

As much as we will try and advise based on previous experience/knowledge of the company, sometimes those going it alone could do with some information on the topic – so I wanted to touch upon this issue as it may be helpful for other industry professionals going into interviews.

As a rule of thumb, base your decision on the industry.

Is it a financial company? Highly corporate? If so you may need to wear a suit.

Similarly, if you will be meeting with clients on site as a large part of your job, it may be right for you to dress smartly in your interview.

For a creative agency, go smart casual! Express your creativity, but respect the fact you are looking to impress the person you’re meeting. A blazer over a more casual outfit can always be taken off at reception if necessary.

If you’re working in a design team as part of a wider IT company, you may need to be on the smarter side, too.

Hiring managers do sometimes have preferences, so if you can get hold of that information – do.

Try and speak with friends you may have within the company, or contact the HR department to ask in advance. Failing that, look online for press releases including photos of the team. “Meet the Team” sections of websites can often be really helpful in gauging what the accepted style is.

If in doubt, go smart. You can always backtrack from this if you end up working there, but you can’t make a second first impression.

Let me know your thoughts, please email me