What should I wear?
Although most Canadian government employees wear business casual attire to work, I highly advise against this choice of clothing for your interview. To be honest, it is a very bad idea. Why? Because your competition will be wearing suits to their interviews. I have seen job candidates who have been inappropriately dressed and others that have been appropriately dressed. The latter group were taken more seriously at the interviews.
For interviews in the Government of Canada business attire is the choice for both men and women. It is important to remember that you must present yourself in a professional manner – this includes your clothing. Do not take this advice lightly. As the expression goes: ” You only get one chance to make a first impression”.
In this article and in my book I will give you detailed information on what men should and should not wear. Please keep in mind that this article and my book are an “Insider’s Guide”. Hence, what I am telling you is what Federal government hiring managers look at. If you do not feel comfortable dressing a certain way, it is your decision. However, keep in mind that after years of experience and consulting with others, I have a VERY good sense of what will make a good impression and what will not.
Dressing the part
Unlike the private sector, the Canadian public sector demands a more conservative and traditional dressing style. The following suggestions are for your interview. Every department has its unwritten rules. After the first week or two on the job you will get a sense of what and how you should dress for work.
Men
Suit*: Style of your choice but with a modern touch. If you do not wish to purchase a suit, a clean pair of pants, with a matching top and tie will suffice.
Note: Colour should be black, navy blue,or gray.
Shirt: White or light blue
Tie: Simple style that coordinates with shirt and suit
Socks: Black business socks only
Shoes: Black business shoes It is imperative that your clothes are clean pressed and in impeccable condition. Do not forget to shine your shoes, although you will not fail the interview for not doing this, it leaves a good impression.
* If your interview is with: the Treasury Board, the Privy Council Office, Finance or the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Affairs (DFAIT), otherwise known as the core agencies. I STRONGLY recommend getting a suit.
Positions in these departments are the most solicited (and have very competitive processes to enter) amongst most Canadian federal service employees and external candidates, please make the investment and purchase (or borrow) a suit.