Hong Kong Dress Code
Working abroad sounds like an adventure to many people. However, a job search in Hong Kong requires more than just the obvious Hong Kong CV or Hong Kong resume with Hong Kong cover letter writing and translation, it requires thorough preparation. You have to show that you are flexible, culturally sensitive, able to adapt to new circumstances and cultures and that you possess some commitment and motivation (for the job, not the location!).
You will experience problems that probably did not even come to your mind when you decided to find employment in Hong Kong. For instance, you will experience unlike immigration rules and practices, strange job application procedures, unfamiliar job candidate selection criteria and out of ordinary management culture.
Hong Kong Dress Code for Job Interviews
Do your research. Find out what company employees wear and then dress as they are or nicer than that. The dress code depends on the industry, with banking and finance being the most conservative.
Appropriate dress is considered a sign of respect in Hong Kong
It is important to demonstrate at an interview good appearance as well as good manners. So, dress neatly and conservatively. Formal dark, muted colour suits are the uniform of choice for both women and men. The dress should be simple, appropriate and matching with the job you are applied for, as well as with the culture of the company. Look smart, stable and clean.
Men usually wear conservative and lightweight Western-style grey, dark blue, brown or black suits, white or light blue shirts and conservative plain ties or ties with small patterns. You may select a red tie to impress your interviewer. Shoes should be classic in dark colours matching the outfit.
Women should wear conservative dresses, suits or skirts and blouses in dark, muted colours with black or brown leather shoes. We recommend closed flat shoes or moderately high-heels. Avoid wearing too much make-up, eye-catching accessories and wear only discreet jewellery. Usually wear just a wedding ring or engagement ring. It is preferable for women to look simple, without much jewellery or accessories.
Dress for the job you want, not for the job you have
Red is considered a lucky colour. Wearing a red tie, a red blouse, or another red piece of clothing might have a positive effect on your host. If you want to accessorize, a fancy watch or an elegant necklace also help you dress to impress.
Caps, bandannas, athletic shoes, sweats, unkempt clothes, jeans, undershirts, T-shirts, open shoes and thongs are never acceptable. If the wind was blowing, comb your hair before making the first contact at the reception.
Perfume or after-shave should never be strong. Fragrances may offend the interviewer or cause an allergic reaction. Manicure your nails.
Do not carry a water bottle or coffee mug. Carry only a slim folder holding your job application documents and CVs. Do not chew anything.
Remember, how you dress is one of the most important factors in being hired in Hong Kong
When you start working, ask on the first day what the dress code usually is and try to match that on the following days.
In the summer, you might dress more casually. During this time, pants and short-sleeved shirts for men and casual dresses for women are widespread. Avoid shorts.
Other Hong Kong Dress Code Info
When you receive an invitation to the Hong Kong job interview, apply for the Hong Kong visa and Hong Kong work permit. Start preparing yourself for the Hong Kong job interview. Take a quick look at job interview tips and other job search skills pages. Check the job interview dos & don'ts. Find out why people are not hired for available jobs.
In addition, on the international info, job search, visa, work permit, cover letter, CV & resume, job interview and dress code pages you will find many useful tips for overseas job seekers.
Good luck with your Hong Kong dress code.