You have heard the phrase, "Dress for Success." This is very important in your job search. First impressions can make or break an interview, so presenting a Tailored Image is a good first step to Promoting Success in your job search.

Employers can tell horror stories about people who show up on their doorstep looking for work with: torn jeans, t-shirts with offensive sayings, dirty fingernails, uncombed hair, curlers in their hair, and poor attitudes. While you have the right to dress the way you want on your own time, it is important that you dress the way an employer wants if you expect to be considered for a job. (This may also mean removing studs or getting a hair cut.)

When you are dropping off resumes, dress as if you were going to be interviewed, because you might happen to be in the right place at the right time and have the opportunity to speak to the employer or manager right away.

Many businesses have now adopted a more casual dress code, but it's a good idea to take some time before your interview to check out how the other employees are dressed. A good rule of thumb is to dress a little better for the interview than you would expect to dress on a daily basis. Dress above the position you want when to make a good first impression.

It is not necessary to have a big budget to present a tailored image. All it takes is time, careful shopping and a little ingenuity. Check out the second hand stores, the Salvation Army or Thrift Stores or your friends' closets.

Fran Watson is a Career Counsellor, Workshop Developer/Faciltator and member of Toastmasters. Find out more at www.franwatson.ca and sign up for her free E-zine Fran's Facts and Findings.