How to Dress for a Fire Chief's Interview
Although you may have the job background and skills for the position of fire chief, during the initial interview process it is actually your appearance that can make or break your chances of getting the job. According to a Forbes.com article, a study by Frank Bernieri, Ph.D., an associate professor of psychology at Oregon State University, showed that an interviewer typically decides whether you are right for a job during the first 10 seconds of an interview. If you have a polished appearance and seem to have it together, you are much more likely to land the job. Knowing how to dress for a fire chief’s interview is the first step toward making a good impression.
1
Get a haircut a few days before the interview. Although there are some differences in hair length requirements for firefighters, it is generally agreed that the hair should not extend below the back of the collar. If you are a woman with long hair, use pins, barrettes, or combs to pull your hair up. Men should be clean shaven or have their moustaches and beards trimmed.
2
Wash and iron your outfit, or have it dry cleaned and pressed prior to the day of the interview. If you have not worn the outfit in a while, make sure that it still fits properly and there are no stains or missing buttons. Knowing you are well-dressed will help you to exude confidence.
3
Wear an outfit that is conservative and neutral in color. Men should wear a suit and tie, while women should wear a dress with a blouse or button-up top, or a matching pantsuit. Both men and women should avoid wearing bold colors or designs.
4
Wear a pair of dress shoes that match the formality of your outfit. Avoid wearing shoes that might slip on tile floors or that are uncomfortable on your feet. Try the shoes on with your outfit to make sure your appearance looks pulled together.
References
Tips
- There is always the possibility that you will run into your interviewer when you initially pick up your job application or drop off your resume. Avoid having your first impression be the wrong one. Make a point to wear casual dress attire, such as dress slacks or khakis and a nice shirt, instead of a pair of jeans and a t-shirt, even if you think that you will only be there for a minute.
Writer Bio
Based in Atlanta, Casey Kennedy has been writing online content since 2009. She specializes in writing about small business, careers, real estate, and ecommerce. She also enjoys writing about a variety of other subjects, including home improvement, gardening, and pet care. She attended the Academy of Art online, studying interior architecture and design while pursuing commercial flight training at Aviation Atlanta in Georgia.