While the college campus may be the perfect forum in which to exhibit your flair for the latest in fashion style, the interview is not the place to do so. Even though many companies have relaxed the internal company dress code keeping in mind the new economy dressing sense, interviews still follow the conservative standard. Don't buck the trend .

All the same, an interview isn't a beauty contest, but how you dress and your overall appearance almost always get noticed by the interviewer. Don't give the interviewer a chance to rule you out because you didn't feel like ironing your shirt or polishing your shoes. Dress in a business-like, professional manner, and you'll be sure to fit in wherever you interview.

• Conservative long-sleeved shirt/blouse (white is best, pastel is next best)
• Clean, polished conservative shoes
• Well-groomed hairstyle
• Clean, trimmed fingernails
• Minimal cologne or perfume
• Empty pockets--no bulges or tinkling coins
• No cigarettes packets in pockets
• Light briefcase or portfolio case
• No visible body piercing (nose rings, eyebrow rings, etc.)

• Necktie should be silk with a conservative pattern
• Dark shoes (black lace-ups are best)
• Dark socks (black is best)
• Get a haircut; short hair always fares best in interviews
• No beards (unless you are interviewing for a job as a lumberjack!)
• Mustaches are a possible negative, but if you must, make sure it is neat and trimmed
• No rings other than wedding ring or college ring
• No earrings (if you normally wear one, take it out)

• Always wear a clean formal dress (whether a western outfit or one suiting the local preferences)
• No high heels
• Conservative hosiery at or near skin color
• No purses, small or large; carry a portfolio instead
• If you wear nail polish (not required), use clear or a conservative color
• Minimal use of makeup (it should not be too noticeable)
• No more than one ring on each hand
• One set of earrings only

It pays to research a company before you arrive for an interview. Employers say that they are interested in candidates who ask intelligent questions and are able to make intelligent conversation based on what they know about the organization. They are unimpressed by candidates who know nothing about the company, what the company does, or the position being offered.

A national survey by confirms that employers say the most common deficiency among job candidates is that they don't know much about the company to the extent of 45 %.

If you're preparing for an interview, you can find a lot of information about many companies, including links to their web sites (and information about products and services) online.Its best to read about the company that is interviewing you and its competition, group companies and target markets etc.

• History of the Company
• Group Cos.
• Size of company
• Organizational structure
• Divisions/departments that you may work for?
• Products/Services being offered
• Training Programs for employees
• Types of clients
• Growth in the past and future potential
• Job description & job title
• New products and services they are developing
• Employee benefits