<p>I also agree that for the interview, you want to be a bit formal even if the workplace has a casual day-to-day environment. I think I’ve worn jeans to work for the past 30+ years (another software geek here). I’ve joked that if I’m wearing a skirt or suit to work, then I’m obviously interviewing. </p>
<p>Agree too that <em>everything</em> makes an impression; and it goes both ways. For my first job out of college, I had a great interview with a company - great job, liked the people, but then they took me to a mexican dive for lunch. They didn’t even pay for my lunch. It was the only thing that struck me as a bit strange. Anyways, I took the job and ultimately that mexican dive became one of my favorite places to eat lunch.</p>
<p>Thank you everyone for all the advice. Got son a beautiful charcoal gray suit at Jos A Bank today 70% off! Now he just needs a nice pair of black shoes and he’s all set.</p>
<p>Yes, actually you’re right – he does also need a new black belt and socks! And he got a new light blue dress shirt and tie today as well. He’ll be set for anything (while I’ll be wearing the same old clothes to work)!</p>
<p>Isn’t that always the case? Just went shopping with D1 for summer work clothes. I am hoping with this bit of investment, it would get us closer in getting her off our payroll.</p>
<p>I thought I’d follow up with the outcome. The interview went well – it lasted from 9 am until 4:30 pm! Lots of technical questions. He must have worn exactly the right clothes, as he found out today that they have decided to extend him an offer!</p>
<p>YAYYYYYYYY! Thanks everyone! I’ll be back soon to ask questions about housing in NYC, but I’ll start a new post for that. I’ll also wait until he hears the terms of his offer so we know what we’re dealing with.</p>
<p>D1 just signed her contract for summer housing in NYC. Your son could look into NYU (great locations) New School, Columbia, or many other school’s dorms in NYC. It will be around 3-5000 for 10 weeks. D1 opted for no meals. Some NYU dorms require a meal plan.</p>
<p>Your son should do it as soon as possible. Most of those schools have opened their summer housing application. I have a feeling there will be a lot more demands this year as more firms are hiring interns in NYC.</p>
<p>You were smart to ask about this matter in advance. I agreed with all the advice regarding dress, but I wanted to add an off-track counter-example to the rules for interview attire. Years ago, a friend with an MBA and a high-powered marketing career tried to change fields and interviewed for positions in the financial end of several creative firms. She was told she was rejected at one place where everyone was in jeans specifically because she had worn a business suit to the interview. The rules can be different depending on the industry – it’s always good to ask around.</p>