Job interview

[beloitpiper]

I know this has been brought up before and it seems like the consensus was not to wear a kilt to an interview, but I feel like this is a special circumstance...

This week I have a job interview with a company based here in Madison. The position is to be a Scotch buyer. I'm split on whether or not to wear one, so I'm turning to the wisdom of the forum. I'm thinking that a kilt would be a good way to demonstrate my passion and connection to Scotland and it's primary export. On the other hand, I don't want to appear Brigadoonish and unprofessional.

I want to hear your thoughts. I've included a poll so it is easier for me, but I will be reading posts and taking those into consideration more seriously.

[xman]

How about wearing a suit and asking their position on kilts because you are a frequent wearer? That demonstrates your passion without breaking decorum.

[Jock Scot]

How about wearing a suit and asking their position on kilts because you are a frequent wearer? That demonstrates your passion without breaking decorum.

Good advice there.

[James Byous]

[QUOTE=xman;905922]How about wearing a suit and asking their position on kilts because you are a frequent wearer? That demonstrates your passion without breaking decorum.[/QUOTE

I agree. Dress for the interview and ask their opinion on wearing kilts. A few years ago I made kilts for the Diagio beverage company team who were promoting Johnny Walker and other Scottish whisky brands in the Southeastern USA. They looked quite nice. The kilts were well received (as I understand) and they fit the occasions for which they were worn. You may suggest this concept in your interview as a promotion for the company where you are applying.

Here's a photo of the team.

[BatlRatl]

[QUOTE=xman;905922]How about wearing a suit and asking their position on kilts because you are a frequent wearer? That demonstrates your passion without breaking decorum.[

Very good, X. The idea is to get your dream job, not to thow your employer for a loop. Get the job 1st, then let's talk mode of dress after the congrats have been made.

.....now you owe me a and X a fifth of their finest .

[artificer]

Madison is a pretty liberal, casually dressed town. BUT, this is a job interview. Check the company website. If it presents itself with a pretty buttoned up image, I'd pass. If, as Jock said, there is an actual Scot doing the hiring, he might be impressed by your 'daring do' (or wondering if you have a wedding to attend afterward )

My general vote is no, go in a great suit, and ask if the kilt is appreciated (if the interview goes well).

[MacMillans son]

I agree with all of what has been said so far.

I would add the potential to actually offend by being perceived by the Scots from whom you would be purchasing as "playing dress up" with, and thereby insulting, their national dress. It has the potential to come across as a patronizing costume, with very little benefit, as far as I can see. If there is not a native Highland Scot on the interview panel, your "non-matching" outfit would likely be assumed to be poor fashion sense by typical Americans not familiar with the traditional highland attire.

I like the idea of adding the fact that you wear the kilt as a part of your personal story that is somewhat associated with the product, if an organic opportunity in the conversation arises.

Most importantly, Good luck with the interview, keep us posted!!

Brooke

[madman79764]

I went to my interview for my current job kilted because I wanted to get my choice of attire out in the open rather than have to ask about if it would be all right later. However, I also explained during the course of the interview that I wear a kilt due to documented health issues from when I was in the military. But what worked for me might not work for everyone.

[Jock Scot]

Do you know you really have got me thinking here and on balance do not under any circumstances wear the kilt! Now that has got your attention. And I mean it! Why?

Well for many years I ran my very own business in Scotland and England and even though I say it myself I was pretty good at it. I cannot remember once the kilt being worn by me ,or anyone else, at important meetings. If I was going to meet THEM I never ever wore the kilt, frankly its a distraction. Sometimes latterly, IF they were coming to meet me I would sometimes wear the kilt if the meeting was at home in my Scottish office and if the meeting was not that important.Business is primarily about making money, and not about personal choices of job applicants and first impressions count, big style. If I were interviewing you and you were wearing the kilt I could not take you seriously, no matter how good you may be. If on the other hand, you got the job wearing a suit AND THEN you and your kilt could be useful to the greater cause(MINE) then alright I would consider it.

This is an important meeting, particularly for you, do not even consider wearing the kilt, but you should let it be known that you are happy to wear the kilt properly, if the occasion should arrise.

[Zardoz]

Since I believe this forum and it's members should promote the kilt as practical clothing, and not a 'ethnic costume', I'll say that I agree with your thinking. Wearing Highlandwear would be a good way show your "passion and connection" to Scotland's 'primary export'.

Don't underestimate the value of bringing something memorable like that to an interview! Being the "kilt guy" might just be the little bit extra that helps you stand out in the process.

I went to a scotch tasting here in dressy Highlandwear and while I was as usual, the only person so attired, the hosts and company reps thanked me for bringing some "authenticity" to the deal.

As long as you can incorporate the kilt into a neat and professional look that you can feel confident in, I say why not give it a try.