MOVE INTO ACTION Growing Leaders From The Ground Floor Up

Here's a recent question I answered:

If I want to put in an application at Walmart, how should I dress since it's just on their computer?

My response:

Business casual because it does matter how you are dressed and people do notice.


Now, there are those who would disagree and say it doesn't matter, because everyone else in the store dresses that way when they walk in. When I hear things like this, I seriously about fall out of my chair, because it's simply bad advice that is costing people potential jobs! Why? The difference is...you are not just walking in there to shop. You are walking in that store and up to that computer to submit yourself to represent the store to future customers. And you'd better not submit yourself as a store representative (potential employee) in cut offs, mini skirts, or flip flops. I have seen people who were qualified to do a job, not get offered the job because their "uber cool" jeans let their crack hang out under the short shirt while they used the computer kiosk. That is a true example! Is that what their store employees dress like?

Therefore, you need to separate yourself from the other people who walk in the doors. And if everyone else applying dresses carelessly, it's all the more reason for you to dress a little more professionally (business casual).

By taking the time to put in a pair of khaki's and a nice shirt, you are making a statement that one says:

I care about myself and how I dress, and I care whether or not I get this job, so I possibly take pride in my work as well!

Now, compare that with the "normal" attire people wear in off the streets as they put in an application on the fly.

You are different and different gets noticed when it's a positive distinction.

That just could be the one thing that separates you from the other candidates and gets you the job.

For more information on interviewing and job preparedness, be sure to check out my workbooks and videos on sale in the $5 Frenzy!