What to wear to a Technology Leader interview

Lori

I have an in person interview in a few weeks and have already started trying to figure out what to wear. It's a Leadership position in Technology. I'll be working with a lot of VPs and will be interviewed by at least one woman VP and several other VPs. And I'm not sure what to wear that will look professional but yet stylish. I am in Atlanta, so it will be hot here. I was leaning towards just a basic black suit - pencil skirt and coat but not sure if I should wear a button down shirt or can wear some sort of sleeveless shirt. Also, what 'statement' pieces would be acceptable? For example, I have a mustard leather d&b bag that I love or should I just stick with a basic black leather bag. Thoughts? Help, please?

Thanks!

Lori

16 years ago

Dressing

9 replies

Latest reply was from Lori

chewyspaghetti

Veteran

I'm not in touch with that area, so don't want to give advice- but I just wanted to wish you luck on your interview!
I don't think that you can go wrong with a black suit and sleeveless shell, but I will let others give opintions on accessories.

16 years ago

Melody

Active Member

Hi Lori ... I'm a little west of you in Carrollton! It sure is hot ... normally I prefer button-downs for interviews but the last interview I had, I sweated clear through my button-down. I think a sleeveless shell would be fine for the weather in Georgia. Have yout thought about wearing a skinny belt over the suit jacket? Maybe in silver?

16 years ago

Kristen

(website)

Veteran

Suit for sure, and sleeveless shell underneath sounds fine. Wear a nice necklace and some pretty pumps and you'll be good to go!

The purse should be professional-looking, not a casual hobo or with fringe or whatnot. The color you have a little more leeway with, but the bolder the color, the more classic it should look.

16 years ago

Lori

(website)

Active Member

Here's the purse: http://cgi.ebay.com/NWT-Dooney.....29ff3838ad but in mustard color: http://www.zappos.com/product/7537147/color/662

Thanks for the feedback so far! I hadn't thought about a belt but I'll have to check it out. Lol, Melody, that's what I'm afraid of!

Thanks Kristen - I have pearls that I might wear and probably my pointy toe black pumps.

16 years ago

Maya

Veteran

I love that purse and it looks perfect for the interview. The orange isn't too loud...almost a tan, and the shape is very clean and classic.

I can't advise further since I am unfamiliar with your field and area. I can get away with a LOT in my field, and also where I live. I'll just say that whenever I need some ideas, I like to browse through outfit ideas on Ann Taylor, J Crew, or Banana Republic.

Maybe since you're in technology you can dress in a futuristic space suit with a silver triangular collar and little antennae coming off your head! Joking, obviously....but if you did that I would totally hire you :p

Good luck!

16 years ago

Kristen

(website)

Veteran

That purse is GORGEOUS! Yes, it's totally appropriate for an IT interview (which is my field) -- do you have perhaps a top or scarf or piece of jewelry to go with it and the suit? You don't want to be matchy, but if you can find another complementary color/pattern to tie the purse into the black suit outfit, that would be ideal. Greys, maybe a teal/blue, even the right shade of red might work -- or a print!

16 years ago

Laura

Active Member

I love how there are so many women in technology/sciences on this forum!! Congrats on the interview Lori =)

The mustard color purse is a great choice and I agree that a sleeveless shell under your jacket is appropriate.

16 years ago

shiny

Veteran

What color will the shell be?

I am in high-tech marketing, and part of my job is working with IT execs on speaking engagements and such. I am guessing, since this is a leadership position and they have you interviewing with VPs, that part of your role may be (or ultimately be?) speaking engagements and being a front for the company?

If that is the case, I would pay special attention to the waist up. Choose statement necklace or scarf carefully. I love the idea of a scarf; if you choose to go with a necklace, I'd opt for pearls (they translate better on video/film/t.v. than silver or gold). Shell color - something flattering to your skin tone, and with interesting details. I don't think I'd go with white.

Purse is important but less so since they will see it and then you will set it down and the focus is going to be on your face. Yes you want a purse that is well made, says business, etc... but I guess I'm saying... don't let the yellow color of the purse dictate the choice of scarf/shell/necklace details. Choose those first, THEN the purse.

And shoes... everyone notices shoes on interviews.... choose your best, polish if necessary. Closed toes. Black is fine but not your only option.

The black suit is an excellent choice.

16 years ago

Lori

(website)

Active Member

Lol Maya! I will definitely try that.

Thank you all for the feedback!

Thanks Shiny for all the info. What type of scarf are talking? A smaller square one to tie in a knot around the neck? I have a beautiful silk emerald green one from Italy, but it is longer/oblong with a little fringe. I don't know if I can work that into a suit. I do like the scarf idea though!

~ Lori

16 years ago

Category