What should you wear?
Although most government of Canada 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 oral interviews. Many experts agree that the first 30 seconds of an interview are the most crucial. Make sure that each second counts by dressing
appropriately.
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, I will give you detailed information on what men and women should and should not wear. Please keep in mind that this book is an “Insider’s Guide”. Hence, what I am telling you is what hiring managers look at. If you do not feel comfortable dressing a certain way, it is your call. However, keep in mind that after years of experience and consulting job candidates, 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 federal service demands a more conservative and traditional dressing style. The following suggestions 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.
Women
Suit*: Any style that complements you. I recommend a pants suit or a skirt suit.
Note: Colour should be black, navy blue,or gray.
Shirt: Any pale colour but no patterns or designs
Shoes: Black business shoes, black pumps, or black short business boots (for pant suits only).
If you do not own and cannot afford a business suit, a clean and pressed business top and pants will do.
Note: Do not wear knee high boots with short skirts, or fish net stockings. You will sacrifice your interview. Yes, you may see the occasional federal service employee that will wear this but trust me this is after they obtainedtheir job position.
* 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) amongst most federal service employees as well as external candidates, so make the investment and purchase (or borrow) a suit.