Do I need to wear a suit to an internal job interview?
With any interview, internal or not, it is best to dress one step up from what is expected on the job. Dressing too formally runs the risk of looking clownish or making the interviewer feel under-dressed. Under-dressing makes you look like a schlub. By dressing slightly above the standard you'll be sure to look just a bit more professional than the people they see every day, while still fitting in well with industry and company standards.
If you feel uncomfortable because you don't normally dress that way, remind yourself (and anyone who asks) about the honest truth: this was a special day, and you wanted to show respect and make a good impression.
12 Answers
Agree with Mike on this one. You won't look stupid if you wear an understated suit (black suit, white shirt, solid tie), but you might look like a doofus if you're the only one that's not.
You can always ask the interviewer, but if you're unsure, it never hurts to be overdressed. Not black, this isn't a funeral or a formal event. Charcoal (see: grey), navy, or something comparable will suffice.
Absolutely. You approach this interview just as you would a new candidate. If they are spending the time to interview you, you should at least make it look like you deserve the time. :)
"Always dress for the job you want, not for the one you have."
I agree with everyone else. My rule is to never show up underdressed. It's always better to be overdressed than underdressed.
Good luck on the interview.
One thing to keep in mind is the dress level of the office. If you know that the interviewer won't be wearing a suit, and if you never wear a suit when you're working then it will look a little phony. These people know you and they'll know you're putting on a show. That being said, it's still important to dress nice and respectful, but a suit may not be required.
My answer is a resounding YES. There's no worse feeling of walking out of an internal interview, in business casual or whatever, and seeing another interviewee in a freaking suit. You look like a chump and if you don't get that job you'll kick yourself for not wearing a suit more than anything else. I don't care if the interview is with your best friend, wear a suit every time. Someone higher up may ask and it may make a difference.