Clothing Question for the NZ Ladies

SoCal Gal

Can anyone help me with the what-to-wear-to-an-interview in Wellington question? This would be for a professional, administrative job. Here in the U.S., I would always wear a suit for an interview, and something on the drab side at that. I have one navy blue suit that is heavy on the polyester that won't get too crushed in the suitcase, but I am curious if that would be considered overdressing, and should I go for a nice, plain dress instead?
Anyone? As alway, many thanks! cool

evelynne_r · I Like It Here Joined: 25 Jan 2004 Posts: 94

Hi SoCal Girl

Personally, I would go for the suit, particularly as you say it's a professional admin job. I always think it's safer to err on the more conservative side.

Good luck with the interview.

Evelynne

SoCal Gal · Posted: Fri Jul 16, 2004 6:31 am Post subject: Clothing Question

Thanks, Evelynne! I used to work for a Japanese bank, and we had all these rules about color, sleeve length, etc., and I am of the mindset that these kind of things probably won't apply in NZ, but you never know! Thanks for all your advice, as usual! cool

coastcat · Posted: Fri Jul 16, 2004 7:55 am Post subject:

Heck, it's New Zealand. Wear the suit, but no shoes. Razz

What would be considered day-to-day corporate attire in NZ? Some companies/industries are no doubt more conservative than others, but do you generally see big-city professionals in suits or in "business casual" (khakis, collared shirts, twinsets, etc)?

Raeven · Posted: Fri Jul 16, 2004 8:27 am Post subject:

From my limited understanding (and I'm quite willing to be corrected on this), it boils down to 4 words in New Zealand:

Polyester is your friend.

Best of luck to you, SoCalGal!! - Rae

michala · Posted: Fri Jul 16, 2004 8:51 am Post subject:

I am new to nz and have been temping in various office, administration roles. Each role I have had I have dressed smart especially if I had to go for an interview (Jacket, black trousers and shirt..etc) People are still smart and some more than others, but for an interview you definilty cant go wrong with your suit....! Nice One

rodders · Valued Member Joined: 25 Nov 2003 Posts: 134

Raeven · Posted: Mon Jul 19, 2004 3:10 am Post subject:

LOL, rodders, not for me, either!!

I, too, prefer natural fibers.. only going on what I've been told/observed in my explorations of NZ.

As for appropriate job interview attire, the one thing you have to give to polyester is, no matter how long it's lived in a suitcase, it's not going to look like it's sat at the bottom of a laundry bag for 2 weeks. That's gotta be a plus to any prospective employer!

All the best, Rae