We all know how the saying goes, “don’t judge a book by its cover.” Although that sounds nice, in reality, that is the first thing that happens when you step into an interview. Your physical appearance can determine whether you pass or flunk the interview even before it begins.
If you secured an interview with McDonald’s, congratulations! Now, you’ve many things to prepare and think about before that interview and you are wondering what to wear. You certainly do not want to underdress, and at the same time overdress and appear as too “extra.”
Well, this article is for you. Let us help you to decide the best outfit to wear (with other tips) so that you can ace that interview!
What To Wear To A McDonald’s Interview?
Although there is no specific dress code required, it is best to dress in a smart casual outfit. Just like any job interview, you would dress smartly and neatly; an interview with McDonald’s is no different.
Having said that, a McDonald’s interview is not like an interview for a job at a law firm. It’s worlds apart, so with that in mind try to dress well while not overdoing it. Underdressing and overdressing can send a negative message to your interviewer.
Underdressing will certainly cast a bad impression upon yourself. It indicates that you don’t take the interview seriously. On the other hand, overdressing can make you seem out of place and unaware of the overall work environment. Hence, the best thing to do is to meet in the middle.
Your outfit choice should aim to be in-between the two extremes. Here’s a guide on what to wear to a McDonald’s interview:
For Men:
- A buttoned-down collared shirt. Short or long-sleeve are both appropriate.
- Dark dress pants, preferably black and dark blue.
- Sweater or jacket
- Conservative dress shoes.
- Loafers
For Women:
- Plain slacks
- Dark-colored skirt (should be knee-length)
- A simple but professional-looking blouse
- A dark jacket or sweater
- Plain flat shoes
- Low-heeled shoes or sandals
- Loafers
You might be interested: What To Wear To A Chick-Fil-A Interview? (Everything To Know!)
Other Outfit Tips
Wearing the right clothes and having the right footwear is only one part of your appearance. You need to “wear the clothes, and not let the clothes wear you.” Basically, your appearance and looks matter too!
Ensure you look neat, tidy, and clean. Wash your face, and look fresh and bright! Keep your hair neat, and make sure it does not block your face. Avoid any over the top hairstyles, like a mohawk, spiked hair, or brightly dyed hair. For ladies, you can either leave your hair tied or untied. Just remember that you look neat.
Overall, the key is to appear presentable and professional.
What To Avoid Wearing To A McDonald’s Interview?
There are a couple of things you definitely should avoid wearing for that important interview. Yes, a McDonald’s interview tends to be less formal, but there are some things you never wear to an interview.
Avoid wearing:
- Sneakers
- Flip-flops
- Short pants
- Any sports attire (e.g., sports pants, jerseys, swimming wear)
- T-shirts
- Any shirt with sensitive or offensive content
- Miniskirts
- Sandals (for men)
- Try to avoid wearing caps or headwear
So, this gives you a general idea of what to avoid wearing for an interview. There are obviously more, but essentially ensure your outfit is decent, appropriate, and respectable. You wouldn’t want to insult an interviewer by dressing sloppily or having a shirt with offensive graphic content, right?
What To Wear For An Office Job Interview At McDonald’s?
If you applied for a corporate office job at McDonald’s, a collared shirt and dress pants is not enough. This is no longer a job at a McDonald’s restaurant branch. You are applying for a corporate position, so your outfit should match that.
You have to move from smart casual to business casual. Generally, this is what a business casual outfit includes:
For Men:
- A black or dark blue suit/blazer/jacket
- A dress shirt (go for conservative colors like grey, navy, black, or white)
- Tie (optional)
- Dark colored slacks
- Dress leather shoes
For Women:
- Blazers
- Pantsuits
- Suit skirts
- Long dresses
- Bow flats
- Toe pump heels
- Shoes
Also, another helpful tip to be sure of the appropriate outfit is to ask someone working there. If you have a friend, ex-colleague, or associate working in the company, ask them. Get a sense of the overall dress code and environment. What do most employees wear in the company?
If it’s not a custom to wear suits or jackets, then you can omit to wear them to your interview. This will help you from seeming out of place by underdressing or overdressing. Show awareness of the environment around you and adapt accordingly. Your interviewer may notice that too, and that boosts your chances of landing that job.
Curious About Dress Codes? Read More Below:
- Starbucks Dress Code 2022
- What Is The Dress Code At Fleming’s? (What To Know!)
- What Is Fogo de Chao’s Dress Code in 2022?
Conclusion
No matter the position you’re being interviewed for (corporate job, restaurant manager, or service crew), always “dress to impress.” Even before the interview begins, the interviewer will form an impression of you immediately just by a glance at your appearance.
To be safe, dress smart casual when interviewing for a restaurant-related job in McDonald’s. For men, wear a collared buttoned-down shirt with slacks or dress pants along with shoes. For ladies, wear a skirt (knee-length) or long pants, a blouse, and covered shoes.
For a corporate office job, business casual is highly recommended. For both men and women, a blazer or jacket is advised. Keep within the range of basic colors like black, navy, beige, or grey. Avoid being too flashy (remember you’re not interviewing to be a model).
All in all, dress smartly, look neat, and be presentable. Get your outfit right, and you’re on the right track to having a good McDonald’s interview experience! What is the best way to dress for an interview? Let us know in the comments below!