There is a famous campfire tale that has been circulating around Talent Zoo for as long as most of us can remember. It’s a harrowing story of the perfect interview going horribly wrong. It begins similar to all the others… the über-talented candidate with the flawless resume and sparkling personality gets through the initial phone interview with flying colors. The hiring manager wants Mr. Fabulous Candidate to come in for an in-person STAT. Plane tickets are purchased. Hotel accommodations are booked. The candidate knows his stuff and is fully prepared. This scenario is a recruiter’s dream. What could possibly go wrong? The answer to this question can be summed up in two tragic words: leather pants. That’s right, I said it. The utterly perfect candidate wore PLEATED LEATHER PANTS to the interview. Needless to say, he did not receive a job offer.

Hopefully, you’re getting a pretty good chuckle out of the story and thinking “who in their right mind would wear leather pants to an interview (or ever)?” On the other hand, if you think that there’s nothing wrong with leather pants, listen up! Agencies are full of fun and highly-creative people that like to express their personalities through their wardrobe. When you’re interviewing, you should always dress like you would fit in well. However, it is important to do so with class and good taste. Before you go in for an interview, do your homework on the agency and its culture. Agency websites usually give you a pretty good idea of the overall atmosphere. Regardless of your outfit selection, you should always look professional and well-groomed.

If you’re unsure of how to dress, all you have to do is ask. You may assume that your recruiter will think you’re ridiculous if you consult us on what to wear. We won’t, I promise. We are more than happy to tell you about the culture of an agency and discuss what you should wear in order to look your best. I’ll even sit on the phone with you while you peruse your closet looking for the perfect outfit if that’s what it takes to get you the job. Remember that we’re always in your corner, but I won’t be if you wear leather pants.

Disclaimer: The above story is 100% factual. If you have any questions or if you’d like to dispute the accuracy of the claim, please contact Lance Anders, a fellow TZ recruiter. He is credited with ownership of the story and can tell a great first-hand account of the infamous leather pants candidate.

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