Do I have to wear a blazer for a virtual job interview at a nonprofit?

[Anonymous]

It’s for a mid level position. The people I’ll be interviewing with are from other countries (Europe and Africa). I’d feel more authentic in a silk blouse / no blazer, but does that send the wrong message?

The interview is virtual.

[Anonymous]

I would that is fine with your hair well styled and accessories and make up if you wear it.

[Anonymous]

I would skip it. I’ve done tons of virtual interviews and a blazer always feels weird.

[Anonymous]

Yes. It’s not a “virtual “ interview- it’s a real interview. Dress the part, Put on the blazer and you will never wonder “What if…”

[Anonymous]

Do you want to work with morons who think a blazer is important?

[Anonymous]

Feeling "authentic" in silk is more of yellow flag.

[Anonymous]

Other countries tend to be more formal than the US. Normally, I would skip the blazer but the interviewers may have a different outlook so I’d say wear it.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Feeling "authentic" in silk is more of yellow flag.

Op. Why do you say that? If I said solid colored blouse, would you feel better?

[Anonymous]

I work with Europeans (remote) and would wear the blazer for the interview. A cardigan would also work—but I think the extra layer looks more polished. Keep in mind that even if you are virtual, they may be in an office.

[Anonymous]

I wear blazers. But honestly, if you want a job where you never have to dress up, don’t wear one for the interview. I won’t hire you and we’ll both be happier.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:It’s for a mid level position. The people I’ll be interviewing with are from other countries (Europe and Africa). I’d feel more authentic in a silk blouse / no blazer, but does that send the wrong message?

The interview is virtual.

You can do things without having to do them.

[Anonymous]

Everyone looks better in a blazer than without.

That's one of the advantages of that particular article of clothing. It is flattering and makes you look more dressed up.

(This advice was from the TV series "What Not to Wear" with Stacy and Clinton. It was a great show where they would take someone who was badly dressed, and help them look better through clothing choices. Stacy and Clinton would often recommend blazers for both men and women. And one of their common pieces of advice was to wear a blazer, as they make everyone (all body shapes and size, men and women) look better.)

[Anonymous]

Send a note to the recruiter or HR person you are working with. Ask for the dress code for the interview, and they will tell you.

[Anonymous]

I would why not?

[Anonymous]

It’s always preferable to be more formal in an interview.

If it makes you feel better, don’t wear pants.