By the Valet. Staff | July 22, 2015

As nearly two million recent college grads enter the workforce this summer searching for their dream job, it's safe to assume that desirable entry-level positions will have more than a few applicants. While your GPA and degree will assuredly play a role, first impressions—from the handshake and eye contact to the shoes and suit—subconsciously influence a hiring manager's decisions. Looking sharp can be the difference between a signing bonus negotiation and a rejection letter. Any chance you can get to make a positive and immediate impact is a chance to land that new gig. We can't fudge your GPA (maybe you should've skipped a few of those 75 cent draft nights), but we can certainly increase your chances of making a lasting (and positive) first impression.

 

The Suit

While a custom suit can give even the most insecure of us a high degree of confidence, it will also result in a depleted bank account. Cost effectiveness—especially when you don't have a steady paycheck coming in yet—is the name of the game here. A grey or navy single-breasted of the two button variety is versatile, understated and effective. The fit of the suit is what will set you apart from your competition. A smartly-tailored jacket can promote good posture; a psychological advantage that has been well researched. A tip: find a tailor you like and trust him with your life.

From left to right:
Italian wool suit, $499 by Suitsupply; Tailored suit jacket, $119 and trousers, $59.90 by Zara

 

The Shirt

This one's easy. Keep it crisp, clean and muted. White or light blue with a semi-spread collar will provide the foundation from which your tie choice and suit can play off of. Subtlety is the key here. Your interviewer shouldn't be wondering where the hell you found a red and white barber striped shirt while you tell him about your experience as president of Sigma Chi.

From left to right:
Slim-fit twill shirt, $69 by Charles Tyrwhitt; Ludlow spread collar shirt, $88 by J.Crew

 

The Tie

Feel free to play with softer hues and smooth patterns. Blues and deeper reds are par for the course in most office settings. Greys and mellow greens are options as well. Stick to silk though. While knit and wool ties have experienced a resurgence as of late, alternative fabrics may be a little much for a first interview. Also, there are many ways to tie a knot. You only need to know one way. And that is the four-in-hand knot. Simple and apt for all situations, it's the humble cousin to the loud and presumptuous Windsor.

From left to right:
Silk chain tie, $19 by The Tie Bar; Rep tie, $79.50 by Brooks Brothers

 

The Shoes

It's widely accepted that one of the first places a man looks when he is introduced to someone is their shoes. Your attention to detail is reflected in the condition of your leather, so be sure to get a proper shine prior to the big day. And don't be afraid to lose the laces either. Streamlined penny loafers and sophisticated double monk strap shoes are commonplace in most offices nowadays, but if deviating from the baseline isn't your thing, we completely get it. Stick with an oxford or cap toe lace up. And don't waste money on cheap dress shoes. It may be difficult to avoid loosening up your grip on that credit card, but take solace in the fact that a decent pair of leather shoes with leather soles, if maintained properly, can last you at least 3-5 years.

Clockwise from to left:
Berkley loafer, $110 by Florsheim; Double monk strap shoes, $395 / $259.90 by To Boot New York; Cambridge oxfords, $258 by Cole Haan