Dressing Your Best

Understanding how to dress your best and mold to company culture has been something I've unfortunately struggled with. Just once I start catching onto what is most appropriate attire for the position--I move onto another job. See the dress above? This is the dress I've chosen to wear to my first day tomorrow. Not only am I wearing this dress, the dress will be accompanied with tights, a black cardigan, and headband.

Deciding What to Wear For Your First Day

1. Observe: When you go to the interview, what are others wearing? What colors, patterns, and designs are prominent. Also, take note of the hairstyles women where in the office (I'm a women.. so vice versa to you men out there reading this.)

2. Ask: When I first started working at the Utah Senate, it was a hard culture to grasp onto. One of the best things I did that helped was asked the girls in the office what stores they shopped at. Then, I would check out the stores and have a better feel for the company culture. For my new job I'm starting tomorrow, I asked the recruitment director what was expected of me and preferred.

3. Don't Be Distracting: I read this surprising fact the other day.. women in the workplace who dress immodestly are less likely to receive raises or promotions. When I started working at the senate I was unaware that my dress that went down to an inch above the knee was distracting to Senators. Blending with the work environment is key, try your best to not stick out like a sore thumb.

4. Dress for the Job You Want: Easier said then done. However, this is a good goal to set and work towards. What I tend to do is to pick someone in the company who is in upper management and to mimic their fashion style. 

5. Still Attempt to Be Yourself: A new job can be overwhelming, just remember to find small ways to encapsulate your personality with small accessories with your outfit. Make it your own.