In this guide we cover the five tactics you can use to find out what to wear for your job interview in Bangkok, Thailand. Looking good, let’s get to it.
As businesses become more aware of employee wellbeing, and as professionals become more selective over who they work with, so dress codes have evolved with the times. Increasingly, the most progressive organisations are relaxing strict rules around what employees can wear, instead they understand that clothes are an expression of one’s personality, and if you’re asked to dress a acertain way in the office, you’ll be leaving a piece of your personality at home and taking on the appearance of someone that isn’t you. This isn’t good for the individual, the team they’re in or the business.
Dress Codes Have Evolved With The Times
People need to be encouraged to bring all of themselves to work, including the way they present themselves. Of course, there needs to be consideration culturally, such as in Japan where stilettos are compulsory in some offices, or when in client meetings, but that’s all it is – consideration. The ideal should be that people dress just the same in this scenario, but tweaks can be made. As long as all employees are on-board and understand, it’s not a compromise on a progressive work environment.
What to Wear to a Job Interview in Bangkok, Thailand
1. Ask the Person Recruiting You
Yep, nice and easy this one, and if you do this then right now, then you might as well stop reading the guide! If you’re going through an IT recruitment agency like RECRUITdee, hopefully they’d tell you what you can wear, we do, but if not, call and ask your contact. If you’re applying directly to the employer, then don’t be afraid to ask the question when you’re in communication.
Don’t worry if the interview is approaching and you forgot to ask, just call or email them with the question. They’ll respect that you’ve asked and it will honestly position you positively in their minds. It’s a simple yet powerful question!
2. Research the Company Online
If you’d prefer to do your own investigative work, head to their website and look for photos of staff. Just be aware that bigger businesses will have various departments and dress codes may differ. For example, a bank might have a tech team that can dress down during work hours, but an accounts team that needs to be smart for client meetings and general demeanour.
Take a look at social feeds too, particularly LinkedIn and Instagram. Again, make sure that the pics are in the office on a normal day, not out drinking or ten-pin bowling!
3. Consider a Sly Office Visit
Now, we’re not suggesting you access employee-only areas, but you can usually stand outside (with a coffee or tea for camouflage) and see staff coming and going from the building. Many office blocks have foyers open to the public or a coffee shop on the ground floor – camp out and make notes.
A visit to the office where your interview is taking place is always a good move, whether you know what to wear or not. By visiting beforehand, you remove the unknown element, it becomes familiar and will relax you when you turn up on the big day. It’s also good to do the journey at the same time as the interview journey, you’ll understand how long it will take. It’s all about taking control and calming the mind.
4. Know Anyone That Works There?
Sounds obvious, but it’s easy to forget someone in your network that works at your prospective employer’s business. Also, people change jobs all the time, and someone you know may have started at the organisation since you last connected. To check if any of your contacts work at the business, go on LinkedIn and search for the company. In the results will be contacts you know that work there. Then reach out and get the intel! They may even be able to put a good word in for you.
5. If All Else Fails – Put on a Suit
If you’re unable or unwilling to do any of the above, then there is an option. Just suit up. And by this we mean smart business attire. Regardless of gender, you won’t go too far wrong with this approach.
Just remember that modern work places are more relaxed than ever before, and employers that prefer jeans and t-shirt might make a preconception of you based on your formal wear, whether that’s right or wrong. Also, this approach leaves you with an amount of uncertainty in the run up to the big day. Do it if you have to, but far better to implement tactics 1-4!
Summary: You should feel empowered. You now you know exactly how to find out what to wear for a job interview in Bangkok, or anywhere in the world. You also know why it’s essential to find this out, and why changing working environments are making it more crucial than ever before.
Check out our complete guide: How to prepare for an interview
We hope this guide helps, good luck in the interview and create your successful future!
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Contact Us
For career and recruitment support, get in touch today to speak to one of our local experts in Bangkok, Thailand:
Call us: +66 2-258-3880
Email: contact@recruitdee.com
