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Is this dress code a red flag?

Dresscode
New answer on Apr 30, 2020
6 Answers
1.4 k Views
Anonymous A asked on Mar 02, 2020

So during my interview, the dress code was heavily emphasized.

-No visible piercings or tattoos (no problem, don't have any).

-Dress code is business professional. I am expected to wear a tie everyday, and a suit when I meet clients. (I said I was okay with this).

-All (male) employees need short, conservative hair (I had long hair tied back but I said I would be willing to cut it)

Is this normal? I thought most places were going towards being business casual. Were they emphasizing the dress code to me because I am a recent graduate? Or this is a sign that I am going to be super micromanaged here?

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Anonymous replied on Apr 30, 2020

it's real, because their clients expecting that.

Relax and stay cool in the interview!

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Sidi
Expert
replied on Mar 02, 2020
McKinsey Senior EM & BCG Consultant | Interviewer at McK & BCG for 7 years | Coached 350+ candidates secure MBB offers

Hi!

If they emphasize it in this way, then it is for real and it is something you have to consider and decide whether you want to work under these restrictions. Both decisions are okay - just be honest to yourself!

Cheers, Sidi

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Francesco
Expert
Content Creator
replied on Mar 02, 2020
#1 Coach for Sessions (4.500+) | 1.500+ 5-Star Reviews | Proven Success (➡ interviewoffers.com) | Ex BCG | 10Y+ Coaching

Hi Anonymous,

they probably emphasized these points as they saw your dress code or attitude towards it was different from the standard of the company. I would not be particularly worried about the fact they mentioned so, so far that you are willing to adapt to that. Many consulting firms are still pretty conservative, so far that they work with conservative clients.

Best,

Francesco

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Clara
Expert
Content Creator
replied on Mar 02, 2020
McKinsey | Awarded professor at Master in Management @ IE | MBA at MIT |+180 students coached | Integrated FIT Guide aut

Hello!

I would say it´s unusual, but if you have been told this is because they are strict with it...

Could you disclose the company name?

Cheers,

Clara

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Luca
Expert
Content Creator
replied on Mar 02, 2020
BCG |NASA | SDA Bocconi & Cattolica partner | GMAT expert 780/800 score | 200+ students coached

Hello,

Even if most of the times you will be asked to be "business casual", it's always good to be a bit more formal during the interview. Be a bit overdressed is always better than appear far from company's standard.
Anyway don't worry, unless you were not really exaggerating with your casual side, it won't be a red flag for your application process. Sometimes it's just a way used by the interviewer to put you under pressure and see your reaction.

Best,
Luca

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Nathaniel
Expert
replied on Mar 02, 2020
McKinsey | BCG | CERN| University of Cambridge

Hello there,

Could you clarify which sector does the company is moving in?
It really depends on this, for example, in startups, the dress code will be much more casual.
On other sector like investment bank or some consulting firms, it would be more restrictive, as they still need to project the 'ideal professional' look.

Although I said some here as some firms are becoming more flexible in this regards.

Hope it helps.

Kind regards,
Nathan

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