First Job Interview Tips: What to wear, say and do, according to a career coach

Fresh out of poly or uni and applying for your first job? Congrats — getting an interview is already a big step.

Now comes the part that can feel a little more confusing: how do you make a good first impression when you are not sure what to wear, what to say or how to act?

That is where the career coaches at NTUC’s e2i (Employment and Employability Institute), can help.

e2i has supported many jobseekers in their job search. According to the NTUC Labour Movement Annual 2026, e2i placed more than 38,000 people into jobs last year through career coaching, job fairs and recruitment events.

e2i career coach Priscilla Tan (above) has observed a 10 per cent increase in fresh graduates seeking help this year. Some want to feel more prepared for the job search, while others are still looking for a job after six months of trying.

So, who better to answer your first-interview questions? From what to wear to whether you should ask about the salary, Priscilla shares practical tips to help you show up prepared, confident and ready.

1. For a first job interview, do I need to dress formally or is smart casual okay?

It depends on the industry and role.

For formal industries

If you are applying for roles in banking, finance, law or Government, business formal attire is still the safer choice.

A blazer is recommended, especially if the industry or role usually calls for a more formal look. Clean and professional dress shoes are also important, as footwear is often noticed more than candidates realise. A briefcase can also help complete a more formal outfit.

For women, dress shoes can include loafers, pumps or ballet flats. If you choose to wear heels, avoid going too high. You want to feel comfortable and confident, not distracted by sore feet or worried about tripping.

For men, a tie is optional unless the industry or company is very formal.

For smart casual industries

Smart casual is generally acceptable in creative, public relations, marketing and tech industries, as well as start-ups.

The key is to look polished and intentional, not like you simply threw on the nearest outfit.

Jeans may be appropriate if they fit the company culture. If you wear them, choose a classic dark blue pair and avoid acid-wash designs or overly trendy cuts, such as slim-fit or low-rise baggy jeans.

For men, a neat, collared button-up shirt with proper pants works well.

For women, a neat blouse with proper pants or a skirt is a safe choice.

Backpacks and tote bags are acceptable, if they look clean and can hold your documents neatly. Gym bags, however, are best avoided.

What accessories to wear

Keep accessories simple. Too many accessories can be distracting and take attention away from your skills, mindset and professionalism.

For men, a simple watch or tie clip is enough.

For women, subtle earrings or a delicate necklace work well.

Dressing for a virtual interview

Even if the interviewer only sees you on screen, it is still recommended to dress professionally from top to bottom. What you wear can affect your posture, confidence and mindset.

General rules to follow

Before any interview, take some time to research the company culture. Check the company website, LinkedIn profiles or other professional platforms to see how employees usually present themselves.

As a rule, it is better to dress slightly more formally than too casually. It shows that you are serious about the opportunity and respectful of the interview process.

Whatever you wear, make sure your outfit is clean, neat, presentable and not distracting.

2. How should I style my hair? Is dyed hair okay?

Your hair should look neat and tidy.

Keep these basics in mind:

• Your hair should not cover your face.
  
  
• Long hair should be tied back neatly.
  
  
• Facial hair should be trimmed and well-groomed.
  
  

Dyed hair is acceptable if your overall presentation is neat and tidy. Natural shades such as brown or dark blonde are generally fine. Bright or unconventional colours, such as electric blue or pastel pink, may be seen as unprofessional or distracting in some workplaces.

When in doubt, tone it down for the interview.

3. What are the safest colours to wear?

Stick to professional-looking colours such as black, navy, white and other neutral tones.

Avoid overly bright or neon colours, such as full red or fluorescent yellow. These colours can come across as too aggressive or distracting.

The goal is simple: let the interviewer focus on your abilities, attitude and fit for the role — not the colour of your outfit.

4. What time should I arrive? Should I shake hands? Can I call the interviewer by their first name?

For an in-person interview, arrive about 10 to 15 minutes early.

For an online interview, log in at least 10 minutes before the session starts.

When meeting your interviewer, offer a polite handshake. Keep it firm and make sure it's not sweaty. If they do not extend their hand, smile and greet them instead.

The safest approach is to follow the interviewer’s lead.

When addressing the interviewer, use “Mr” or “Ms” at first. If they introduce themselves by their first name or call you by your first name, you can do the same. This helps build rapport while still keeping things professional.

5. Can I refer to notes or my phone during the interview?

Yes, but ask first.

You can say something like: “I have a few questions written down to ask later. Do you mind if I refer to my notebook or phone briefly?”

If the interviewer allows it, keep it brief and maintain eye contact as much as possible.

Your notes or phone should support your preparation, not become something you rely on throughout the interview.

To prepare well, practice your responses out loud. You can use the NTUC AI Career Coach Interview Practice tool to record yourself and check your clarity and tone.

You can also do mock interviews with a career coach to get feedback before the actual interview.

6. Is it rude to ask about salary or working hours in the first interview?

It is usually better not to bring it up in the first interview unless the interviewer raises it.

For fresh graduates, the first interview usually focuses on your potential, attitude, enthusiasm and fit for the role.

While it is fair to want to know about salary and working hours, asking too early can come across as premature. Save these questions for later rounds or when the employer brings them up.

7. Should I send a follow-up message after the interview?

Yes. Send a short thank-you note within 24 hours. It shows that you are genuinely interested in the job, keeps you on the interviewer’s radar and can help you stand out from other candidates.

A simple follow-up message should include three things:

• Thank the interviewer for their time.
  
  
• Reaffirm your interest in the role.
  
  
• Mention one relevant skill or point from the conversation.
  
  

You do not need to write a long email. Keep it sincere, clear and professional.

Need more guidance to lock in your first job interview? Visit e2i’s career resources or book an appointment with our career coaches at one of 27 national career centres islandwide.