Help: Interview Outfit

GabbyKnows

I'm moving from the corporate world and into nonprofits.  I normally wear a suit to interviews, but I don't know if that would be appropriate anymore.  I just want to look capable and smart.  I would do this "look" in different colors: a white top, black cardigan and grey wool pencil skirt with some silver jewelry.Is this outfit professional enough, or is too, too casual?  What do you think?

ac_in_dc

What kind of non-profit? It's not terrible. But I would probably sub in a button down shirt for the fluffy shell in that pic.Also if it's a community org without a lot of $$ you still want to look professional but not like a fashion model.

nda_roxybabe

I think its fine

Kati0105

Someone with experience at a non-profit would probably know better, but that would definitely fly as an appropriate interview outfit at every place I've ever worked (in the internet business mostly).

lauralaur

Honestly it depends on where you're going. I've visited a lot of not-for-profits and the dress code varies. I've seen mostly business casual, but some places wear jeans. Do you have any idea what the dress code is? Did you ask? If I can't tell right off the bat what I should wear I just ask what the dress code is. For places that are business casual I would still wear a suit; it's just more professional.

ac_in_dc

FWIW I work at a large international non-profit. We're pretty professional. Suits are OK for interviews but so are separates. I always kind of expect interview candidates to dress more conservatively than they would on the job though.

ZRex

I think the outfit is cute, and totally appropriate to wear to work, but I would still go with a suit or at least a button down for the interview.

GabbyKnows

It's a grant writing position for an organization that helps under-privileged communities.  My gut is telling me to wear a suit - I would rather be overdressed than underdressed, but at the same time, I don't want to appear too much like a corporate yuppy.

TurtlesAllTheWayDown

Where do you live? I'm in Southern California, and here, in all corporate culture, business casual means "please try not to wear shorts of flip flops." I've worn a pencil skirt, button down and pumps to interviews before. It's perfectly acceptable. Or to wear a blazer with that ensemble, but not a matching suit (you know, the female equivalent of dress pants and a sports jacket).I would go with a traditional button down/more conservative blouse, though.

TurtlesAllTheWayDown

FWIW I work at a large international non-profit. We're pretty professional. Suits are OK for interviews but so are separates. I always kind of expect interview candidates to dress more conservatively than they would on the job though.Yes, this, actually. Perhaps just wear a blazer rather than the cardigan. The job I have now? I showed up in business dress (with color, but still) and encountered the weirdest laid-out office suite and people in jeans. But I got the job.

GabbyKnows

I'm in the northeast, so it's probably a bit more conservative than CA.  What if I wear a white button down collar shirt with a black wook cardigan and pencil shirt with black pumps?

lauralaur

I think that would be better than the outfit you posted.

fangsiting

Wear a suit.  Maybe not your stuffiest one, but I'd still wear a suit even for an interview at a non-profit. ps.  that outfit is really cute.  Maybe for your first day at the new job.  good luck.

GabbyKnows

This is a better idea of what I have in mind.  Y/N?

ExpatPumpkin

Since they'll see your resume, they'll know you're coming from the corporate world. So they'll probably expect you to look the part. You can't really be too formally or well-dressed for an interview in a conservative working environment, so wear a nice suit. Save the cute outfits for when you get the job

sudslover

I work extensively with non-profits, and I like version one but with a toned-down blouse.  The button-down suggestions are good.  I like the second one also (maybe more), but the bow is a bit much.  Simple and understated is better.    Best wishes.

Soon-to-be Mrs. Vogt

I do HR for nonprofits. Short of wearing a prom dress to an interview, you really can't dress nicely enough. A suit says you want the job and respect the organization as you would a corporate organization. Just because we don't turn a profit doesn't mean our clients shouldn't be respected and our employees shouldn't give the image of a professional. Wear a suit. You can't go wrong.I like the outfit you posted though (both of them, actually) and think they would be perfect for AFTER you get the job

andyandhillary

You should wear a suit.  It is always a good idea.  If nothing else, it says you take the non-profit world seriously.Welcome (hopefully!) to the non-profit world!  I rarely see someone go from corporate to our side.  bwahahaha