Accepting my first senior-level role was one of the most exciting moments of my corporate career. Before the Zoom boom, I traveled to Switzerland for the interview. On a SwissAir overnight flight, I was nervous and although my seat was in coach, paying to upgrade was an investment. I was determined to come home knowing the job was mine, and I knew they had already interviewed several more qualified candidates.
Aside from the usual preparation for a job interview, my fashion choice and my style would absolutely guarantee me the best chance for success. For this role at a Swiss/French biotech company, I needed to look polished, professional, and chic, but not overstated. Black, grey or navy would have been safe but I had to stand out. Research proved that the CEO herself was a fashionable, brilliant and powerful woman and not OVERDOING the style, but still looking chic was crucial.
It was a warm September day near Geneva, Switzerland in the early 2010’s, and I opted for a Theory loosely fitted, burgundy crepe waist-tie belted dress with a dark grey shrug and taupe patent leather pumps. The dress will forever be etched in my mind as my tool to win the job. I kept my accessories minimal with just a little neck scarf and a traditional, burgundy briefcase (from Henri Bendel) for my papers and hard copy resumes. I wasn’t thrilled with the bag, but I promised myself that if I landed the job, I would buy myself a work tote that I loved. And I did, several more since then actually.
When I walked in and met the CEO looking and feeling my absolute best, I knew the job was mine. She and I connected on the fashion level, which supersedes a lot of other qualifiers. My message is, never underestimate the power of what you wear for job interviews or business meetings. In my case, a carefully chosen, simple burgundy Theory crepe dress literally drove my career trajectory.
Although none of those circa 2015 pieces are available any longer, here are my picks for strong alternatives. I can’t promise you that you will land the job, but I can promise you will be noticed!
Theory Pleated Combo Dress in Textured Satin Mink color $595.00
Valentino silk stole with animal print
