The job market for college graduates is very competitive. According to the United States Bureau of the Census, only 62 percent of alumni have jobs that require a degree and 27 percent have jobs related to their majors.
Tammy Haley, employer relations specialist at the University of Memphis, said the first part of being employed starts with looking the part.
"Always dress for the job you want," Haley said.
A suit is the best way of professional presentation at an interview and on the job for men and women.
Traditionally, women wear skirt suits but more and more women are embracing the pants suit because it's more contemporary, according to Haley. She also stresses the importance of being conservative with accessories as well.
"Noisy necklaces and earrings are distracting and unprofessional," she said. "Heels should be no higher than two inches and should be closed toed."
Presentation is just as important for men as women.
"You only get one time to make a first impression," said Robert Cunningham, a sales associate at the New York Suit Exchange. "And first impressions are lasting."
Cunningham recommends a grey or navy blue suit for any interview but never black. Black, he said, is considered very formal.
"You're not going to a funeral," Cunningham said. "You're trying to get a job."
Wearing a tie with a little color or a neckerchief with some pizzazz is not as frowned upon as it once was.
"You can have a little personality - just not too much," Cunningham said. "In this day and age, it's okay to step out a little."
Both men and women should research the company before going into an interview.
"You want to know the atmosphere of the workplace so you can dress appropriately," Haley said. "Some places are business and others are casual. Know what you're walking in to."
Stepping out in appropriate clothing can gain respect from prospective employers that happen to see you on the street or for that impromptu call for a follow-up interview.
According to Stephon Coleman, a junior international business major, choosing clothing is possibly one of the most important steps in preparing to land a job or get a promotion.
"You always want to be conscious of what you have on," Coleman said.
Haley emphasized that students should always look prepared for interviews and work days, otherwise employers will think they are uninterested.
"A lot of college students leave school with debt but you never want to be lax. Dress your best, everyday," Haley said. "Last thing, you do not ever want to go into any company with un-pressed clothes. It's just unprofessional."
