Someone who is dressed nice is more likely to receive respect from everyone, especially their peers, according to Kristin Chandler, director of ULM Career Center. As soon as you walk into an interview you are judged on how you look.

Some ways to improve your chances of receiving the job is to make sure you do not look disheveled. For men, having your hair pulled back, a clean shave and ironed clothing can make a difference. For women, small amounts of makeup and light perfume fragrances are good places to start.

“We teach also ways to go conservative when attending job interviews, such as a suit for men and pants suit or a dress suit for women,” Chandler said.

Wearing solid colors such as black, grey, white and tan are great compared to bold, mismatched patterns.

Once you get the job, dress to your work environment. Do not assume that now since you are hired, your employer is no longer watching how you showcase yourself to the company or business, according to Chandler. Keeping up your appearance will help out in the future when you try to get a promotion or raise.

For college students who are applying to internships or some type of job shadowing, what you wear to the interview can give a quick assumption of what you can bring to the table.

Sydney Machen, senior kinesiology pre-physical therapy major, said she believes the way you present yourself can be perceived as either positive or negative when it comes to getting a job.

When Machen was interviewed for a physical therapy technician position, she was prepared with an outfit that could help her excel in the interview.

“I knew that in order to set high standards going in that what I wore was crucial for them to see that I showed a sense of professionalism and that I was taking the position seriously,” Machen said.

While you may look the part, knowing your worth and expressing why the employers must hire you will help them choose between you and another candidate.

“Your confidence and being aware of your best qualities and skill sets along with looking professional for your job will increase your chances of being chosen for the job,” Chandler said.

Research conducted by Forbes magazine found that 85 percent of employers hire candidates who smile and are cheerful during their interview. People who look depressing or stern have a 15 percent chance of getting a job.

Age, weight and race can also play a role in the hiring process, according to Forbes. Only 29 percent of businesses surveyed said they would hire someone of an older age. People who are heavy set are hired 16 percent of the time.

The report also claimed that the employer is more likely to choose someone of the same ethnic background as them. In general, wearing the best clothes appropriate to your job will positively amplify the impression you made on the employer although other factors are important as well, according to Chandler.