We are increasingly looking more and more closely at all aspects of the job interview. From how we communicate to how we dress. These are all very important aspects that we should take into account. Colors are also an important decision when it comes to a wardrobe choice.
There are studies that show that many candidates rejected for a job have lost points for that application in aspects that may seem of little importance: body language, choice of a certain vocabulary, the color of clothes…
All of this makes sense if we understand that these aspects are part of non-verbal communication.
Clothing colors and non-verbal communication in job interviews
We have already talked in other articles about non-verbal communication in job interviews. The importance of this point is simply essential if you want to find a job.
Non-verbal communication is everything that is expressed without speaking. A frequent mistake is to associate this type of communication with a few aspects such as gestures or body language. But the truth is that it goes much further.
In non-verbal communication, factors that we know as first impressions come into consideration. From personal hygiene to haircut, and dress code, all are elements that shape the employer’s initial impression of the applicant in a job interview.
In a perfect world, the job interview would last long enough for the first impression not to be decisive. But the truth is that such meetings, at least in first interviews, tend to be short and very specific.
First impressions will be a determining factor in many applications, especially when it comes to comparing candidates with similar potential.
The choice of wardrobe is indeed very important, but we now know that the choice of colors is also relevant.
How to know which clothing colors are best for a job interview
This is a really interesting and difficult discussion. Not everyone agrees. This is normal if we take into account that there is no real pattern that can be universal for choosing the right clothing colors for a Job Interview.
The first thing to consider is the type of job you are applying for. If you are interviewing for a fashion shop, showing your taste for bright colors is not necessarily a bad thing; if the job interview is for a funeral parlor, it could be a very bad idea. This is an extreme example, but it shows that the first step always is to position yourself properly in relation to the job you are trying to get.
If things are not clear, neutral colors are often considered to be the most suitable as they create a sense of sobriety. Neutral tones can be blue, black, or grey. But be careful, too much black or grey can be a bad combination.
On the other extreme, very bright colors can be a bad choice; yellow, orange, or red can be considered bright colors for a job interview.