It’s never a good idea to show up to a job interview in a t-shirt and sweat pants.
But what if, for one reason or another, that’s all you have?
Suits his Style is an Ottawa-based non-profit organization that provides appropriate professional work attire to disadvantaged, job-ready men.
“That first impression that you make in that first seven seconds that you meet somebody can be the difference between whether you get the job or you don't get the job," says Scott McNaughton, co-founder and Chair of the Board of Directors of Suits his Style.
Several studies have shown that clothing can also have a powerful effect on the person wearing it, making them more confident and more likely to perform well in an interview.
McNaughton said he got the idea after his father passed away from cancer in 2014, leaving behind a closet-full of dress clothes. McNaughton, grateful for the level of care his father received, wanted to find a way to give something back to the community.
It turns out it is a service that's badly needed. There are several programs to help train men for a new job, but few to help them dress for success. “This year we’re on track to help over 300 clients,” he says.
The organization has partnered with L’Hexagone Menswear on Dalhousie Street in Ottawa’s Byward Market. That’s where donations can be dropped off. You’ll find a list of acceptable clothing items here.
