Many of us are looking for new jobs and careers post-Covid-19. In fact, Covid has forced many to reassess their work lives. The Labor Department suggests that around 4 million Americans quit each month in what has been called "The Great Resignation." About half of currently employed Americans intend to switch careers due to Covid.
41 percent want flexible or remote work
39 percent want a raise and promotion
33 percent are considering changing their industry entirely.
With so many searching for new jobs, it's essential to make the right impression. One of the easiest ways to do this is through your appearance. This means more than just making sure you are clean and well-groomed; it also means pairing the right clothes with the right style and accessories.
The general advice for any job seeker is to dress like you already have the job. The wrong earrings, glasses, lipstick color, or necklace can distract employers from what matters: your skills, experience, and personality.
Your choice of business attire depends on your industry and typical workplace norms. Those rules also apply to your jewelry and accessories. It is crucial to go light for interviews. Earrings for interviews are an excellent choice to accessorize while also showing off your fashion style, but there are some things to consider before you walk out the door.
Is Wearing Earrings for Interviews Appropriate?
For the most part, yes! Unless otherwise stated by your specific industry, wearing earrings for interviews is appropriate.
Wearing the right earrings in an interview is a great way to make a lasting impression. Most people notice a woman's earrings the first time they meet her. If you wear studs and keep the rest of your jewelry classic and understated, it will show you are focused and professional.
That said, bigger, more noticeable earrings might be better left at home for an interview; they could take away from the light you want to shine on your face during an interview. It's also essential to pair your classic earrings with a well-groomed appearance, with neat hair and make-up.
Related: Jewelry for Business Attire: What's Appropriate?
Here are some important but easy to remember rules to keep in mind as you select those perfect interview earrings.
Keep it Simple
No matter what industry you are in, the focus should always be on you and not what you are wearing. Of course, there are exceptions to this rule. For example, if you are interviewing for a job in the fashion industry, you’d want to show off and accentuate your unique style.
Women have more leeway than men when it comes to accessorizing, but the rule is the same: less is more. Have you ever had a conversation with someone with a massive, chunky, shiny necklace? It can be problematic focusing on anything but that dazzling accessory. In most cases, it is best to choose a subtle style that enhances your look rather than distracting from it.
Wear Small Pieces
It is always quality over quantity when it comes to interviews. Choose small earrings like studs that do not draw a lot of attention. It is best to stick to one pair if you have multiple piercings. Wear small and simple earrings.
Avoid Diamonds
While every girl loves diamonds, it is best to avoid wearing expensive, diamond pieces when dressing for an interview. Diamonds in wedding bands or engagement rings are perfectly fine, but it’s best to avoid them in other jewelry pieces.
Diamonds represent wealth. If you waltz into the interview dripping with diamonds, the interviewer might get the wrong impression, feel intimidated, or believe their compensation package may not be appreciated.
On the other hand, some may argue that wearing expensive jewelry shows you are dressed for success and showing your more elite status. In the end, it depends on the type of role you are interviewing for.
Go For Precious Metals
Gold, platinum, and silver are all considered precious metals. You can find stunning, timeless, versatile earrings for interviews in these materials for any style and budget. Remember, this is your one chance to make the best impression you can. Classic precious metals are understated yet professional, classic yet fashionable.
The Do's and Don'ts of Jewelry for Interviews
Remember, there is only one first impression. To make the best one possible, follow these tips for jewelry like earrings for interviews:
Do's
- Wear jewelry that sends an authentic message but does not distract from the main show - you.
- Wear smaller, more conservative pieces. Rings should be simple versus extend from knuckle to knuckle, for instance. Necklaces should be classic. Earrings limited to studs, small hoops, huggies, and cuffs.
- Wear jewelry that has a soft color. Bold colors distract from the main show.
- Be hesitant about expensive pieces. You do not know how the interviewer will perceive them.
Don'ts
- Do not wear multiple pieces. Stick to just a single set of earrings and a necklace. If you decide to layer necklaces, make sure each is understated.
- Do not wear plastic, especially if you are interviewing in the fashion industry. High-quality stones and metals are better choices to show off sophistication.
- Do not wear jewelry that draws attention to them. Remember, less is more.
What Kinds of Earrings Can You Wear?
Not every earring is appropriate. Hate to break it to you, but that trendy, shoulder-length set will not cut it for a big interview. Instead, choose studs, small hoops, or other minimalistic earrings.
Avoid big hoops, earrings designed with whimsical motifs, or larger dangling earrings. Although these pieces show off your unique style and personality, they also take the spotlight. The point of the interview is to show what you can bring to the table, not your fashion style.
On the other hand, sleek and straightforward jewelry options give a more accurate view of your professional self. You want your interviewer to listen to what you have to say rather than looking at your jewelry. Basically, employers love it when you are authentic and authoritative but not when your outfit and accessories overshadow you.
Now that we hit the nail on what not to wear, we can recommend the earrings you can wear.
Stud Earrings for an Interview
You can never go wrong with a stylish pair of studs. There are plenty of stylish yet conservative stud earrings you can pick from that will quietly show your unique style.
For a timeless look, we recommend picking a cute pair of pearl studs. For a unique look, you can't go wrong with stone studs.
Studs give the illusion of a floating gemstone in the ear, adding a subtle beauty to your appearance. Studs are also the most petite and easiest-to-wear jewelry.
Hoop Earrings for an Interview
Hoops are versatile earrings that flatter any face shape. When people say hoop earrings, they often think of the large hoops worn to the club or big events. But hoops come in all shapes and sizes.
Small hoops that hug the earlobe are better to wear to interviews. They can also vary in thickness and weight. We recommend lightweight hoops for interviews. The last thing you want is a heavy earring pulling on your earlobe.
Hoops are also often set with gemstones or diamonds for extra shine. While these types are undoubtedly gorgeous, they are not interview-appropriate. Stick to a simple hoop.
Related: Carry Your Beauty and Glow Everywhere with Your Open Hoop Earrings
Matching Jewelry
Of course, what you wear to an interview is ultimately up to you. Your wardrobe, however, should be influenced by the type of job you are looking for. For example, if you're interviewing for a creative position, expressing your inner artist through your clothing choices makes sense. On the other hand, if you are going in for a job as an accountant, dressing practically would be most appropriate.
You may be tempted to "complete" your look by matching your earrings with rings, bracelets, and necklaces. However, please remember that less is always more! Don't overpower your look with too much jewelry.
Wearing Earrings for Interviews Is Appropriate - As Long as You Don't Go Overboard
Wearing the right jewelry to your interview shows that you are a serious job candidate. Earrings are easy to wear and will complement any outfit you choose to wear on the big day. There are many styles of earrings, and there is not a single correct answer when it comes to what earring style you should choose for your interview.
Keep in mind some things when picking out an outfit, including fashion trends being featured this season and what your interviewer might be wearing. As previously stated, if you determine the dress code expectations of the business or business professional in advance, wear earrings with a simple but sophisticated style of clothing to highlight your interest.
Earrings for interviews are a great way to make a statement without entering the minefield of appropriate (or inappropriate) body adornment. Keep in mind that your dress should be businesslike, but it doesn't have to be boring. A bit of pizzazz is just what you need to stand out from the crowd and prove that you are ready to tackle any challenge.
Here at Liz James, we are determined to provide high-quality designs that match your unique style and personality. Shop now to find the perfect earrings for your upcoming interview!