Do clothes' colors matter when interviewing?

Do clothes' colors matter when interviewing?

The answer is, "yes," according to "Dressing the Part Means Coloring It In," an article by Kimberly Thompson that I read in my Summer 2011 Phi Kappa Phi Forum magazine today. The colors you chose to wear help shape the impression you make. They can not only send a visual message but also elicit an emotional reaction from potential employers. To employers, the colors you are wearing can also signal whether you will fit into the company or not. In The Image of Success, Lizandra Vega, an executive recruiter and image consultant, writes, "A professional image can easily be projected by the choice of clothes, accessories, and appearance. Visual cues are very important."

What statement do the colors you are wearing make to employers?

Navy blue inspires confidence and stands for loyalty. It is the best color of suit to wear to an initial job interview.

Brown tones signal honesty and integrity. Green hues signal balance and poise. These are "safe choices for a first or second job interview."

Black commands authority. Therefore, wearing it to an initial job interview may seem powerful too early into the interview process. It's best to save it for a final job interview where you will likely meet with senior management.

Red signals aggressiveness. A bold choice, it may be appropriate for a sales position, but muted tones of red are better.

Pink? Don't wear it until you already have the job. It signals romance, friendship, gentleness, and softness, which can cause potential employers to question your judgement.

Overall, in today's competitive job market, if you are serious about your job search, then you need to consider the nonverbal messages that color sends.