Keith writes:
Hi and thanks for your advice.
I have a job interview in a few days with UPS, and I’m applying for a position which is of manual labor. How should I dress for the interview?
The Career Doctor responds:
You always want to dress to the position. So, I would advise being sharply dressed in what I call business casual… dress shirt, slacks, nice shoes. You do not need a suit, but you do need to look clean, responsible. All workers of a company reflect the image of the company, so the interviewer — even for the position you are seeking — wants to see someone who fits the UPS mold.
If you had the time, of course, I would also suggest checking either the UPS career site and/or contacting the human resources department and asking about appropriate interview attire. I am amazed at some of the great advice and suggestions companies are placing on their career sites, but I wonder how many job-seekers actually take advantage of this resource.
For example, UPS has a great career site, including a detailed FAQ (frequently asked questions) section, which includes this paragraph: “If you have been advised that you will be touring the UPS facility remember to wear casual slacks or jeans and a sturdy closed-toe shoe (no-sandals or open toed shoes) in order to tour our facility. Please do not bring any personal items such as cell phones or pagers. Also do not wear any jewelry articles such as rings, watches, necklaces or earrings.”
Information is the job-seeker’s currency… and the more you know, the better prepared you will be, so take advantage of all the resources available to you. Certainly, not all corporate career Websites will have as much great information as the one at UPS, but part of your role as a job-seeker is to take the time to find multiple sources of information.
I still get amazed at hearing employers tell me how poorly many job-seekers answer the question, “tell me what you know about our company.”
Find lots and lots more job interview related tools, articles, and more, in this section of Quintessential Careers: Guide to Job Interviewing Resources.
And looking for a quick source for company career websites? Go here: The Quintessential Directory of Company Career Centers.
