University of Illinois Extension
Looking Your Best for Work

Grooming Do’s and Don’ts

  • Do wear your hair clean and styled neatly.
  • Do use deodorant.
  • Do not use a lot of cologne.
  • Do not smoke, chew gum or spit tobacco.
  • Do shave your facial hair.
  • If you wear a beard, it should be neatly trimmed. Mustaches should also be trimmed.
  • Do not have dirty fingernails no matter what type of job you are applying for. Trim nails and scrub hands if necessary.
  • Do cover tattoos wherever possible.

How To Give Yourself a Manicure

You can have your nails professionally done or you can do them yourself. Here's how:

  • Gently shape nails with an emery board.
  • Soak hands and nails in warm soapy water until all traces of dirt are gone.
  • Gently push back and remove cuticles with an orange stick or towel.
  • Wash hands and lightly scrub to remove remaining cuticle.
  • Rub light oils or cream into fingers, nails and cuticles to help moisturize.
In this section: Clothing for Interviews | Clothing Do's and Dont's | Grooming Do's and Dont's

 

 

Dress to Impress Clothing Choices for Women Personal Grooming for Women Clothing and Grooming for Men Getting the Clothing You Need Interviews On the Job Success Top 20 Professional Careers Top 20 Non Professional Careers Additional Resources