Posted on May 30, 2016
SPC(P) Information Security (Is) Analyst
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I've never worn a suit and tie to any interview. I've been told by hiring mangers in the past, wear what you would wear to the job, you're not impressing anyone with your blazer and suit. What would you recommend to a transitioning SM? Go all out or wear what is comfortable?
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Responses: 22
Capt Michael Greene
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Times change. So do the rules. Many of the hiring managers are half my age, and scoff at anyone who wears a suit. There are still some rules, though. Bankers=suits. Programmers=no way.

Personally, I look uncomfortable in a suit, and it makes others uncomfortable to see that.

Some professional "transition" companies that host job fairs for SM will insist on a suit for everyone, but I think they're misguided.
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MAJ Raúl Rovira
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Always wear a suit & tie. Stand out from the crowd. Most of the interviews I had in suit & tie were for jobs that do not require it. Out of the blue, and unexpected to me, I ended up in a job that requires suit & tie every day.

On the flip side, there are some companies here in Alaska who dress causal all the time even for interviews. If you go in suit & tie you can always take off the tie and/or the coat if you have to downgrade. Always easy to downgrade if needed.

If in doubt, you can ask the hiring manager. Before you do that, consider driving by the place of employment and observe what people are wearing.
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SPC(P) Information Security (Is) Analyst
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Edited >1 y ago
Just a heads up for anyone interviewing for Amazon... this company is all about what is comfortable for you (at least at my level of responsibility). I wore a flannel (rolled sleeves), nice set of slacks and black Nike Janoskis. But you can't go wrong with a little more "class"
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Lt Col Aerospace Planner
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Yeah I have heard about companies like theirs appeal to the young tech hipster crowd. Probably why they like Seattle since it embodies that whole culture. I have heard similar from people who work for the three bay area tech giants.
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Capt Seid Waddell
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I always went with the suit and tie. You can always relax to match company standards after you get the job, but you will never be able to get a second chance at a good first impression. They will see what you present and they will judge you accordingly. A good resume cannot counter a sloppy first impression.
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Lt Col Aerospace Planner
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Some of the younger tech companies now are appealing to the whole tech geek culture. So they try buck the tradition of the suit and tie mentality.
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Capt Seid Waddell
Capt Seid Waddell
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Lt Col (Join to see), no doubt. But it is easier to relax standards initially set than it is to repair a poor first impression. If you dress like you don't care they might think that you don't care.
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Sgt Field Radio Operator
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Wear a suit and tie. Also research the company so that you can answer any questions that they throw at you. Interviewing is serious business, so do serious preparation.
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LTC Jason Mackay
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I wore a suit with tie to every interview. I was interviewing for Director level positions. It was appropriate and expected.
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Sgt Isr Systems Engineer
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No one will fault you for being overdressed. The opposite could definitely negatively impact your prospects of getting hired.
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SSgt Boyd Welch
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I've always worn coat and tie for office job interview and slacks shirt and tie for floor level positions. Most hiring managers appreciate your professionalism. Just my opinion but if you are hiring for a mechanics job then business casual is appropriate.
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SPC Terry Martin
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A Great book to read is "The Men's Dress for Success" by John Mallory.

Basically, it depends on the job you are applying for and how bad you want it. Interviews are to see how you look, talk, respond, your vision and your knowledge on the position.
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PO3 Jade Crowsmeadow
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Always dress for the job you want. Be professional and kept. A suit says you respect them enough to take the time to look your best. Remember how you use your words and your body language is just as important as the suit.
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