What NOT to Wear to a Job Fair

Sometimes it’s difficult to know what to wear to a job fair. Usually, a job fair’s guidelines or invitation will include guidelines or
instructions to dress “business casual” or “business professional.” And while a quick Google search can tell you what those mean,
there are a few things you should never even glance at when you’re picking out an outfit for the event.

1. Jeans

This includes skinny jeans, jeggings, or any other type of variation you may think is acceptable. There is a time and place for jeans
in a professional setting, but at a job fair, they are far too casual. They show a potential employer that you may not take your position
too seriously or that you’re not willing to put the effort in.

2. Sneakers

As comfortable as they may be for a day spent on your feet, they also signal that you aren’t willing to put the effort into even your
outfit. It doesn’t send a good message to employers that are looking for people who care about the quality of their work.

3. Flip flops or casual sandals

This is simply a lazy look. Again, employers will view this as a sign that you don’t put a lot of effort in and are potentially unprepared.

4. T-shirts

Shirts without a collar or graphic t-shirts make employers think you don’t take the event seriously and could potentially not take the
job you do at their company seriously. T-shirts are acceptable for some companies if they have a more casual dress code or
environment but it’s always better to be safe than sorry at a job fair with tons of potential employers from different workplace
environments.

Adelphi University’s Center for Career and Professional Development will be holding their Annual Job and Internship Expo on April
27 from 12-3 p.m. in the University Center. Come into the office in Nexus 225 and pick up a pamphlet on how to dress appropriately
for a job fair beforehand!