For more general information, go to the Survey's Summary Page.
  • Keep in mind that the clothing you wear is the first impression that the
    employer will have of you in many cases.  Make sure it is a good one!
  • Dress up for the interview.  Go a step above what everyday attire would
    be for a usual day in the office.  
  • Remember that what you wear to the interview is not necessarily
    what you will have to wear to work.  
  • While you are there observe the staff to see if the attire required is
    something acceptable to you.
  • Keep in mind that the staff in the interview will often dress up for
    the occasion, as well.
  • Always keep your clothing (jacket, shoes, etc) on during the interview
    and on all breaks.  
  • Wash/touch up only in the restrooms, never in a public area or a break
    room.
  • Wear clothes that are comfortable and won’t cause you to fidget, squirm,
    or otherwise appear uneasy during the interview.  
  • Wear your interview outfit at some point prior to the interview so
    that you know if you will be comfortable in them or not.  
  • Make sure to wear clothes that breathe and won't make you too
    warm.
  • Make sure you dress for the weather.  
  • Don’t wear a summer skirt in the middle of an icy winter, or vice-
    versa.
  • Accidents happen.  Sometimes clothes are lost on the plane flight.
  • Interviewers will understand if this is the case, but make sure to
    tell them at the beginning of the interview so that they do not
    interpret this as a lack of desire for the position.
  • Consider wearing on the plane clothing you could interview in if
    you had to.
  • Hair should be neat and well-groomed.  Facial hair should be neatly
    trimmed.
  • Business-like socks or hose are a necessity.
  • Break-in your shoes before the interview.
  • Shoes should be neatly polished.
  • Clothing should be neatly pressed.
  • Wear good, conservative underwear, top and bottom.
  • Almost all interview outfits should include a jacket.
  • Men should always wear a tie.
Librarians' Job Interview Attire Survey Results:
Specific (Positive) Recommendations from the Survey Comments