An interview for a position in law enforcement assesses your judgment, professionalism, and understanding of the culture. Your appearance is the first thing the panel reviews, communicating your respect for the position and the department. Dressing in a conservative and professional manner shows you understand the expectations of a law enforcement career. This impression is formed before you answer a single question, making your attire a key part of your presentation.
Professional Attire Guidelines
For Men
A two-piece business suit is the standard for a police interview. The most appropriate colors are conservative, such as charcoal gray or navy blue, as these convey professionalism. A black suit can be perceived as formal wear or resemble a uniform, while brown or brighter colors are too informal. The suit should be well-fitted, clean, and neatly pressed to show attention to detail.
Underneath the suit jacket, a white, long-sleeved, button-down dress shirt is the most professional choice. The shirt must be crisp and thoroughly ironed, as wrinkles suggest a lack of care. A light blue shirt is also an acceptable alternative. The tie should be conservative with solid colors like dark red or blue, or simple patterns like subtle stripes. Avoid novelty ties or overly bright colors that could be distracting.
For Women
A conservative suit is also the recommended attire for female candidates. This can be either a pant suit or a skirt suit in colors like charcoal gray, navy blue, or black. These neutral tones project an image of authority and seriousness. The fit should be professional and not overly tight, ensuring you can move comfortably.
The blouse worn under the suit jacket should be modest, with a high neckline. Solid, neutral colors such as white, cream, or light blue are suitable choices. If you opt for a skirt suit, the skirt should be knee-length to maintain a professional appearance. It is also recommended to wear neutral-toned hosiery with a skirt.
Essential Grooming and Presentation
Proper grooming is an extension of your professional attire. Your hair should be clean, neat, and styled conservatively. For men, this means a short, traditional haircut that is off the collar. For women with long hair, it is best to pull it back from the face in a simple, tidy style like a bun or ponytail. The objective is to look polished and ensure your hair is not a distraction.
For male candidates, the most prudent choice is to be clean-shaven. If you have a beard or mustache, it must be impeccably trimmed and neat. An unkempt beard can be perceived as a sign of poor discipline. This presents a clean and orderly appearance that aligns with the standards of a law enforcement agency.
Nails for both men and women should be clean and trimmed. For women who wear nail polish, a clear or neutral shade is the best option; avoid bright colors, elaborate designs, or long nails. Makeup should also be minimal and natural-looking, intended to enhance your features rather than draw attention. This presents a subtle and professional image.
It is advisable to avoid wearing any cologne or perfume to the interview, as the aim is to be scent-neutral. Some interviewers may have allergies or sensitivities to fragrances, and a strong scent can be distracting in a small interview room. Deodorant is sufficient to ensure you are fresh.
Accessories and Final Details
Shoes should be polished, conservative leather dress shoes. For men, this means black or dark brown lace-up dress shoes with coordinating dress socks. For women, closed-toe low heels in a dark color that matches the suit are appropriate. Avoid loafers, boots, sandals, or any open-toed shoes.
Your belt should be a simple leather one that matches the color of your shoes. Jewelry must be kept to a minimum. A conservative watch and a wedding ring are the only acceptable pieces. Men should remove any earrings, and women should limit themselves to a single, small stud earring in each ear. All other visible piercings should be removed.
Visible tattoos should be covered. Long sleeves can conceal tattoos on the arms. If you have tattoos on your hands, neck, or other areas not covered by clothing, consider using tattoo-specific concealer. This demonstrates that you understand the appearance standards of many law enforcement agencies.
Bringing a simple portfolio or a professional folder communicates preparedness. Use it to carry extra copies of your resume, application, and a list of your references. This keeps your documents organized and adds to your image as a well-prepared candidate.