“People are going to make a decision about you in probably the first 30 seconds or minute they meet you,” said Department Chair of Business and Finance, Professor Anita Williams. “It is extremely important that you look prepared … .”

When it comes to looking for employment, Williams said, employers are looking to hire people who will represent their companies well.

She said looking as if you’ve taken time to prepare goes a long way in landing a job.

However, she acknowledged, dressing for success is not always affordable.

Williams said there are a few options for finding business clothes that won’t strain a pocketbook or wallet.

She said women can turn to Suited for Success, an Oklahoma City non-profit organization that helps women find professional clothing at an affordable price.

Suited for Success has a sale from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. the first Friday of every month, and from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. the third Saturday of every month at 4149 Highline Blvd., Suite 370, in Oklahoma City, according to their website www.suitedforsuccessokc.com.

Women can buy a suit for $5, dresses and jackets for $4, slacks, skirts, blouses and tops for $3, and shoes for $1.

“Our mission at Suited for Success is to help women achieve self-sufficiency by providing professional clothing and career development services,” the website reads.

“Our services, available to clients at no charge, empower women to find and keep jobs that provide them with economic independence.”

Williams said both men and women should look at local thrift stores, consignment shops, or garage sales for affordable professional clothes.

Accounting major Daniel Ebrottie said he wears professional attire every day.

He said it helps him meet people.

“It gives me more confidence,” he said.

For more information about Suited for Success, call 405-521-1089 or visit www.suitedforsuccessokc.com.

For more information on the Career Transitions clothes closet, contact Employment Coach Julie Johnson at julie.johnson@occc.edu.