We have started a segment allowing potential candidates to ask questions that will be answered directly by our CEO, Darcy Swift. This month’s question is:

QUESTION: I went to an interview in what I thought was a very nice, professional outfit. I wore a dress with a blue and white pattern and heels. The interview went great, the HR Manager even wanted me to come back to meet the owner. However, before I left she said, “we have a very strict dress code, for your next interview please come in something more professional and less eccentric”. I was so shocked I didn’t know what to say. She said it like she was helping me but I felt very judged. What should I make of this? Am I being too sensitive or is she out of line?

ANSWER: Part of an interview with an HR manager is giving you information that may help you in the future. There are obviously nicer ways to say things, but try not to get too offended. Some offices or facilities have a very conservative view and dress code. For example, Oklahoma is a very conservative state and the medical industry in Oklahoma is even more so. 

Try not to get offended or feel like you were being judged that the HR manager gave you that information. Usually they won’t bother to let you know this type of information if they don’t feel you are a good fit. Take it as a compliment that she wants you to do well in your next interview. Read between the lines and apply their view point to your wardrobe.

If you have a question you want answered, please contact us here. We will feature one frequently asked question a month.