Press Releases

TORONTO, Feb. 26, 2013 /CNW/ - Chief Information Officers (CIOs) want to hire IT professionals who are "well suited" for the job -- both literally and figuratively. According to a new Robert Half Technology survey, one-third (33 per cent) of CIOs said a business suit is the most appropriate attire for someone interviewing for an IT position. Twenty-nine per cent of respondents favoured tailored separates, while another 29 per cent prefer khakis and a collared shirt.

The national survey was developed by Robert Half Technology, a leading provider of information technology professionals on a project and full-time basis, and conducted by an independent research firm. The survey is based on more than 270 telephone interviews with CIOs from a random sample of Canadian companies with 100 or more employees.

CIOs were asked, "Which of the following, in your opinion, is the most appropriate interview attire for someone interviewing for an IT job with your company?" Their responses:

    *Response does not equal 100 per cent due to rounding.

"An interview is an IT worker's chance to make a strong first impression," said Megan Slabinski, district president of Robert Half Technology in Canada. "Appearing overly casual could lead the hiring manager to believe the candidate does not take the position seriously."

Slabinski added that networking before the interview can help job candidates get a sense of how to dress when meeting with a hiring manager. "Candidates should do their homework - if you are working with the firm's HR representative or a recruiter, take the time to ask about the dress code and what may be deemed appropriate attire for the interview."

Robert Half Technology offers these additional interview attire tips:

• Choose something comfortable. You want to look as relaxed as possible, so avoid uncomfortable clothing. If you purchase new interview attire, wear it a few times to break it in before your meeting.
• Pay attention to details. Don't overlook the less obvious aspects of your appearance, like your shoes, socks and accessories. Make sure your outfit is free of wrinkles and stains, your hair and nails are well groomed, and your shoes are polished.
• Don't overdo it. Ultimately, you want your experience and skills to be the focus of the interview -- not your outfit. Avoid any distracting clothing or jewellery, as well as excessive perfume, cologne or makeup.
• Turn off electronic "accessories." Make sure any mobile device you have with you is off before the meeting.
• Dress the part for a video interview. Even if your interview is via webcam, you want to look the part. Make sure you dress appropriately from head to toe and the background is free of distractions.

About Robert Half Technology

With more than 100 locations worldwide, Robert Half Technology is a leading provider of technology professionals for initiatives ranging from web development and multiplatform systems to network security and technical support. Robert Half Technology offers online job search services at www.rht.com. Follow Robert Half Technology at twitter.com/RobertHalfTech.

SOURCE: Robert Half Technology