It is Valentine’s Day and all the shops all seem to be festooned in the colour red. This is obviously because red is supposed to be the colour of passion and love. Theoretically, though, it is also the colour most associated with confidence…so should you wear it in an interview?
In a study called Impact of Colour on Marketing it was found that up to 90% of snap judgements made about products were based on colour alone. It also showed that people make assessments within 90 seconds of their initial encounter with people or products. Sixty-two to 90% of these judgments are influenced by colours.
So, this begs the question, what colour conveys the right message in an interview?
Navy Blue: This colour exudes confidence and professionalism. It’s a safe choice that will make you appear trustworthy and dependable. Research done by an international employment website, CareerBuilder, found that blue was the most recommended colour with 23% of hiring professionals.
Black: Black suggests power and authority, but while it may help you feel more confident, too much black can come across as intimidating or unapproachable. 15% of respondents from the CareerBuilder survey said it was their top pick.
Brown: Brown sends the message of being comforting and reliable – but it can also convey the image that you are simple and old-fashioned.
Grey: If you want to send the message to your (hopefully) future employer that you are both logical and analytical, then grey is the way to go.
White: White (and beige) gives off the impression of being organized, detail-oriented, and attentive to cleanliness.
Burgundy or maroon: These colours convey ambition, power, and creativity while still maintaining professionalism.
Yellow: Yellow enhances excitement and energy but can also provoke feelings of anger, irritation, and aggression.
Green: Green conveys a sense of safety, peace and healing. However, some feel that green can infer that the candidate is inexperienced and envious.
Purple: Purple symbolizes royalty, power and sensitivity but can also imply that you are unconventional.
Pink: Pale pink suggests youth and innocence, and can invoke calm but may also suggest weakness. Hot pink has similar connotations as red…
Red: According to the CareerBuilder survey wearing red can portray sex appeal or passion, power, energy, excitement and courage, some associate it with hostility and defiance.
However, evidence suggests that red isn’t the worst colour to wear in an interview!
It seems that Orange topped CareerBuilder’s list for the worst colour to wear to a job interview, with 25% saying they associated the colour with someone who’s overly confident and unprofessional.
In conclusion, dressing for job interviews is not about being flashy or trendy; it’s about presenting yourself in the best possible light by creating a cohesive and professional appearance. By following these tips, you will be well on your way to making a positive impression during your next interview!
Good Luck!
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