It doesn’t matter which industry you are interviewing for; it’s always essential to make your best first impression. Many candidates mistakenly dress down when they are interviewing for a “blue-collar” job in the manufacturing industry. But you can give a hiring manager the impression that you aren’t serious about a job when you show up in ripped jeans, a tee shirt, and worn-out sneakers.

While it might not be necessary to wear a suit and tie (for men) or a business suit (for women), you probably shouldn’t dress below “business casual.” Here are a few suggestions for looking professional at your next manufacturing interview:

What is business casual?

Business casual isn’t a style that’s chiseled in granite. It means different things to different people. But most of them agree on a few things. Men should wear trousers or khakis, a shirt with a collar, and shoes with hard soles. A jacket or blazer is optional. No need to wear a tie.

For women, business casual means trousers or a skirt that’s knee-length or longer and a shirt with a collar or a blouse. Stay away from jeans, yoga pants, sneakers, or any athletic gear.

Can you overdress for a manufacturing job interview?

There is a school of thought that believes an interview is always a formal event that requires more formal attire. Dressing this way shows professionalism and respect for your interviewer and the company, they assert. Even if you are going to dress casually for your manufacturing job, it is much better to wear formal interview attire to make the best impression.

Others think that while you should dress neatly, being too buttoned-up and formal might send the message that you are using this job as a stepping stone to bigger things.  Dress for the job you are applying for, they say, not for the position of a company executive.

You’ll have to decide which philosophy works for you.

Are their rules for hair and accessories?

Yes, there are some general rules. First of all, make sure your hair is clean, combed, or brushed. Also, it’s usually better to be on the conservative side with your hair. Loud colors and flamboyant styles could work against you. You don’t want anything distracting from your skills and bringing your professionalism into question.

As far as accessories go, the fewer, the better. Facial piercings can ruin your chances immediately. And manufacturing facilities look at rings, bracelets, and necklaces as safety hazards. So, remove the tongue piercing and leave the dangling earrings in your jewelry box. You’re here to get hired, not to make a fashion statement.

Do you need more help getting a manufacturing job?

We can help you. Get in touch with HCR Personnel Solutions, a leading manufacturing recruitment agency in Canada that recruits top professionals for exceptional career opportunities.