In honor of me starting my first ever internship position (and because @Don_Diva11 suggested it), I wanted to give a quick rundown about what you should wear on your first day to duty!

Reflecting back on when I started my job 5 years ago, I remember how I was very nervous & obsessing over what I should wear. Here’s what I suggest to get you through that exciting first day:

As you know, workplaces vary. It truly depends on the culture of your internship site as to how you should be dressing. Do your research! Ask whoever you have been in contact with about the dress code. Think about what type of work you are gonna be getting into. Keep in mind the type of people you are going to be working with. Are you going to be working directly with clients or consumers? What kind of impression do you want to give? It seems like a lot to consider, but it’s really not!

Your appearance is very important, especially during first encounters. You want to make sure that people do not get the wrong impression of you from day one.

On the first day, dress a tad more formally. When I started working 5 years ago, I came to work with a black blazer & slacks, a crisp button down blouse and some pumps. Boy was I shocked when I arrived. The workplace was more relaxed than I had expected. But I was glad that I did not come looking too laid back on the first day. I was able to get a feel of the place. That is what I recommend. Until you get a good sense of the workplace culture, dress it up!

We all know that too much of anything is never good (or do we?). Try to keep it simple when it comes to your clothing choices, perfume or cologne, and accessories. We don’t want your scent to be choking everyone in there while they are trying to work!

Ladies, if you decide to rock a skirt, please make sure that it is not too tight or too short! Those skirts you wear out to the clubs are not a good look! If you opt to wear slacks, just be sure they aren’t hugging everything you own. Keep it simple & classy. Also, don’t show up to your new internship with your cleavage revealed; keep your necklines a little higher than what you would wear after hours. The classic white button down shirt is always a good choice, as it is safe. As for your shoes, make sure they are comfortable & please do not wear excessively high heels! Once again, simple & classy!

Fellas, make sure your clothes are wrinkle free and clean! As the same with the ladies, a crisp white button down shirt is always nice along with a conservative tie. Try to go for a solid color or one with a subtle pattern. If you decide to wear a sports jacket, shoot for a solid black or navy one. Wear a clean pair of dress shoes, along with socks to match.

That wasn’t so hard was it? Good!

Now since it’s the first day on the job, you definitely want to come prepared. Be sure to carry a notepad and pens (and pencils if you prefer) so that you can take notes. You wanna be sure you jot down all of those important pieces of info that you will be receiving. You can carry all of these things in a nice brief case, handbag or laptop carry case or a solid color book bag.

Since you’re gonna be there a while, bring something to eat/drink! This will help with saving money, especially if your internship is unpaid like mine! Carry along some of your fave healthy snacks and you should be more than prepared to succeed!

Get plenty of rest the day/night before your big day. Take some time to re-review any information that was given out to you previously and just get mentally prepared for this new experience in life that you are about to embark on.

As I count down the minutes before I walk into my new workplace, I am feeling confident. I feel like I am more than prepared & I am ready for anything they might throw my way!

Remember, “when you look good, you feel good” and people will take notice to all of that!

Until we meet again,

-Krissy Nicole