Applying for a job you’re unprepared to handle is not wise. Just ask anyone who has been hired for a job where they find themselves underskilled and you’ll know you don’t want to put yourself there.

On the other hand, your skills, experience, and attitude will be the attributes you present to an employer that will get you hired. But for goodness’ sake, don’t blow it by blowing off your attire when you are called in for an interview. It’s very, very important to make a good first impression. Did I say very, very?

Do Your Homework

It’s to your advantage to know everything you can about the company that has invited you to an interview. It’s also a plus to know as much as possible about the industry. This research is certainly facilitated by the Internet nowadays. You can also go to your local library and look in the References section for volumes on industries and on specific companies such as Standard and Poor’s Index. In addition, you can go to the local newspaper or newspapers and ask them to search the archives for any news items about this company or its personnel. You may find some very useful information here.

Interview Attire

A business suit is always appropriate. Some human resources professionals nowadays advise that if the company executives wear dressy casual, you may go that route. You are safer to wear a business suit.

The suit should be gray, black, or dark navy in color and your shoes should be leather lace-up. Make certain your socks are dark—gray for a gray suit, black for a black suit, navy for a navy suit. Make certain that everything you wear is clean and fits.

If you are opting for dressy casual, wear pressed khakis or slacks, a clean, ironed button-down shirt, a belt and leather loafers. Make certain your belt matches the color of your shoes. That color should reflect the color of your outfit: black for black or gray; brown for tans or muted. The shoes should be freshly polished. Scuff marks on your shoes suggest that you are not very attentive to details.

Carry a briefcase or portfolio to carry your resume—not a shabby, scarred one that has been through the wars, either. Carry a good-looking one even if you have to borrow it. No tattered manila folders or college logos. Don’t wear aftershave or cologne! It turns some people off.

Your Tie

First of all, don’t wear anything that will distract attention from your face. This is not the time to drag out the bizarre, loud one that you are so proud of. Keep it conservative. A discreet stripe is good or a plain dark blue or dark red one. Make certain it’s a good one.

If you need to, spend a little money on it. And it should be silk. You can accessorize your tie if you also keep it conservative. For example, a classic silver bar will hold your tie down during the interview. It will keep you from fiddling with your tie while you’re being interviewed.