Advice on workwear for first few weeks in a new job...

Hi everyone!

I on the lookout for new jobs. My current work environment is fairly relaxed style-wise. I'm able to wear jeans and whatever accessories I want really. I try to look put together but never terribly formal except if I'm going into a meeting with external clients or partners.

I will be applying to various government departments...public service wear ranges anywhere between super-conservative and formal (suit and ties) to jeans and t-shirts, depending on your level and job category. I'll be going into a fairly creative area...but it's likely I'll need to ditch my light-wash jeans and super casual garb in favour of more structured and corporate wear.

It's likely if I get a job in the public service, I'll be part of a larger team and will need to get along well with everybody I work with. I'm a bit quirky by nature and I like to look funky, but I'm a bit scared to go too overboard in case I make a wrong impression or make other people in my team (especially the girls) think I'm superficial or a bit "weird".

What are your views on workwear during a job transition? Should I play it cool and fairly "boring" for the first little while until I settle in and people get to know me, or should I wear what I want, letting it showcase my quirkiness? I love my quirky accessories and interesting pieces. On the one hand, no matter what I wear people should accept me for me, right? On the other, first impressions do count with most people and I don't want to get off on the wrong foot.

I must admit that in the past when new girls have joined our team I have kinda judged them on first appearances, and if they were too dressed up or attention-grabbing I felt a bit put-out as, no matter what level you're joining at, the attitude is usually that you are the "rookie" of the team and need to respect the existing pecking order and "lay low", at least for awhile! I know, that's an awful attitude and one I don't hold anymore...but some people might. The public service is kinda known for attracting people who are obsessed with power plays and politics...and it can be a bit superficial and back-stabby.

So...advice? I've never faced this situation before so really don't know how I should play my style cards!

15 years ago

Kristine

Veteran

You can start with kind of conservative clothes with a few interesting accessories, then let the quirkiness take over as you get comfortable and people know you better.

It also depends on how you define it though, maybe you could post specific outfits and where you think you might wear them.

Tanya

I agree with Kristine, it is probably the best to start more conservatively and once you are in you can change that. I am in a similar boat with my still new-ish science job and I know what it is like.

Katiepea

(website)

Hey Tara

Ex Canberra PS girl here.

I would probably err on the side of conservative just to start. Being honest, you are right, there can be a bit of judgement on how you appear - for instance, a really short skirt or super low-cut top may not give a favourable impression.

Of course, there are some people who do dress like that, but they tend to be people who have been in the same job for years and years, everyone knows them and they have no desire to move on to "bigger and better things".

I always liked to look "noice", and probably went more for looking dressy rather than casual, but that's just me. That said, my hubby always wears a business shirt and tie to his office (also PS) even if others around him are wearing t-shirts and jeans. I think in many ways the biggest thing that will make an impression is to be very well groomed. I have seen many pairs of "business slacks and sensible blouses" in my times look really dowdy or scruffy when they are crumpled, stained or ill-fitting.

It probably sounds a bit boring, but for at least the first few days in order to not ruffle any potential feathers, I would probably say that business trousers would probably be the most easy for you to start, because you can wear a nice top with them and accessorise to add a little personality, but you are still looking "business smart" if that makes sense.

Good luck writing the applications - oh so much fun! (not!)

Michelle

Tara, I realize you and I may have very different style approaches, but my advice would be to follow your inclination and play it safe for the first little while. Take the opportunity to size up your work environment and let your performance, rather than your appearance, form the basis for the first impression. You don't want people to remember you as the chick with the cool necklaces (exclusively, anyway), aim to be remembered as the person who totally slayed her first few assignments, or the one who brought all kinds of fresh ideas to the table etc. I personally also subscribe to the mantra "dress for the job you want, not the one you have," but I realize that may not be everyone's style. If that's something that lights your fire, take note of your superiors and pattern your outfit choices on theirs, while of course allowing room for your own individual flare. It's important not to lose that, but it may need to be toned down slightly depending on where you land.
Good luck these next few weeks!

stringy

Lots of good advice above. I would suggest that when you get the job, but before your first day, take a peek at who's going in and out of the building at lunchtime or in the morning. That way you can get a bit of advance warning about what people typically wear. There will probably be a bit of a range even within the one workplace, so this way you can see what the boundaries are.

Traci

Your outfits never strike me as either trying too hard or over the top. Your instincts will take good care of you. I think the "who does she think she is?" territory comes in when someone is trying to be something they're not. Be true to yourself while sticking to any wardrobe policies the new job may have, and you'll be great.

medusa

I think that starting conservative until you get the lay of the land sounds wise.

Angie

Fashion Stylist

Great suggestions!

Tara needs to establish what constitutes "conservative" for her style. That's the crux.

rute

I have to speak, I agree you can start by being conservative and then you can see better how others dress..but please don't say boring! Conservative can be fun, gorgeous! You can play with accessories, shoes, scarfs, bags, well cut dresses and powerful suits... never boring!

Isabel

I am particularly in agreement with Kristine. Use a few, well-selected accessories. I have always found that even when people are a bit "quirky", eventually the personality and cooperation and competency rule over everything else ( as long as it not waaay over the top).

Like Traci, I have found you to be unique but never forced.

GOOD LUCK !

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