Start practicing your wardrobe

When it comes to interview and workplace wardrobe, understanding the applicable dress code is important. The most factor is not the clothing itself, but how you feel when wearing it. Too often, new professionals do not break out the suits and ties until they are actually in the career search process. This is a serious mistake, as evidenced by the multitude of first-time suit wearers I have witnessed when interviewing candidates for positions.

This is a serious issue for men. Women typically transition better from casual to business attire, and they have a greater variety of choices when it comes to appropriate clothing in the professional world. Us guys, on the other hand, are pretty relegated to suits, sport coats, and ties.

Looking and feeling comfortable is as important when you are trying to impress as the actual clothes you are wearing. If you feel relaxed and professional, potential employers will see it and appreciate it too. Just like with anything else, this only results from repetitive experience.

With April now upon us, if you are graduating or pursuing internships, or are searching for a new job in a more-professional environment, start practicing your wardrobe now. This does not necessarily mean wearing a suit to class or the grocery store. Start off by putting on khakis or dress pants instead of jeans and shorts. You need to feel comfortable wearing those, as well as dress shoes, around during the warmer spring and summer months when you may be used to looser and less clothing.

Eventually, sooner than later, you need to practice life in the suit. Choose an appropriate opportunity. Understand that the eyes on you will not be the first time people notice you in such clothing. In fact, one of the biggest issues we face in business attire is that people always look differently at us. Eventually, we realize this is a compliment, if suit looks right and look comfortable wearing it.

Finally, trying out your business wardrobe gives you the chance to see if any alterations need to be made. Make sure your pants are not too short or too long, and the same for shirts. If adjustments need to be made, visit a local tailor or dry cleaner that provides alteration services.

Looking professional is essential, whether you will be a "strictly business" or "business casual" environment. For everyone, especially men, the best course of action, like any other professional endeavor, is to make an effort for achievement through prior preparation.