How to Dress For a Nursing Interview?

For fresh graduates and those who are new in the nursing industry, it is important to learn how t9o dress up in an interview. Since nursing profession is a career that can be attributed with high responsibility and roles in the society, a professional look and attitude is a must when one is applying for a responsible job such as nursing.

So, what to wear to the interview?

It is suggested that if one is an aspiring nursing candidate, then he/she must portray certain qualities which are a quintessential part of this profession. Nursing job is a responsible job, therefore the candidate must possess and exude professionalism through his/her attire.

For Women Applicants

The general rule is that she should dress better than what is required for her job profile. So she will be wearing scrubs to work. Hence, she may wrongly assume that a pair of jeans and a T-shirt is fine for an interview. However, it is significant to note that nurses are professionals; and given a choice they are expected to dress like any other professional in a business environment. Therefore, women applicants should preferably wear dress pants or slacks, trousers or a knee length skirt for the interview. Also, stick to neutral colors such as black, navy, brown, white, beige, gray, as such. She should choose a decent pair of shoes such as loafers or closed toe shoes. She should avoid wearing anything that is too dressy. Although, it is a bonus to smell fresh and nice, so not use strong perfumes, deodorants and colognes. The health institution she will be working in, would not allow for fragrances as they irritate ailing people.

image credit to : http://www.asla-socal.org/

image credit to : http://www.asla-socal.org/

Aside from the attire, women should also pay attention to other grooming details. Tie her hair in a bun, ponytail or any other hair updo. If she must keep it down, then make sure it stays away from the face. Also, women should wear minimal or if you look good and comfortable, then no makeup will do. For jewelry, it should also be kept to a bare minimum. And please, do not flaunt tattoos or piercings on an interview.

For Men Applicants

For men applicants, he can wear slacks, formal trousers and a full sleeved button down shirt with a tie. Although, there is no need to go for a business suit, he may consider a blazer for a more professional look. Like in women, men applicants can also stick to neutral colors for his blazer and trousers. Pastel colors are also preferred appropriate for formal shirts. One should invest in a decent pair of formal shoes.

Also, it would help if men too should pay attention to the grooming part. A neat and clean look is a must. Wash his hair and part them neatly. If he must keep a beard, make sure he trims it well. Likewise, preferably wear a good quality belt and try to match it with ones shoes.

On general, overdressing is not recommended for a job interview either in nursing or any other professions. But be aware because sometimes, under-dressing may kill ones chances of getting shortlisted altogether. So if possible, research upon the work culture of the facility one intends to join. This should give a person fair idea on what one is expected to wear for an interview.