I've recently been following a very interesting HR discussion on this topic. Does anyone else take into account dress sense and cleanliness when selecting?
Just curious, no other motive.

I don't know that I am qualified to talk about "dress sense". What I know about fashion could easily be inscribed on the head of a pin by one very sloppy angel using a three inch chisel. Having said that, I would expect interviewees to come to the interview dressed appropriately. So given that a call centre is an office environment I would expect a smart, tidy and clean appearance.

I suspect that is the normal expectation among most people. Interviewers would be very surprised if someone rocked up in jeans, t-shirt and trainers and the interviewee who arrived like that would be surprised to get the job.

But like I say, I wouldn't expect a Saville Row suit, and probably wouldn't be able to spot it anyway, if someone wore one.

I would say that whether you choose to or not, you subconciously make an assesment of any candidate you speak to, not that this is confined to interviews, you make this same judgement about every one you meet. i think it would be a bit naive to think you can ignore it and just judge someone on their CV and the answers to your questions.

I agree you would be naive not too. We have a dress code that you could describe as smart professional. Other call centres in the area have a more relaxed approach.

Particularly as the majority of our recruitment is done through Agencies I think it is only right of us to question how appropriate the candidate is if they have not dressed to the standard that would be expected for the role.

It says "I haven’t done my research on the business" (and I am still amazed at the number of people who turn up at an interview and no nothing about the company).

Overall impression is part of our benchmarking process.

My approach to recruiting call centre staff has always been a little different to the 'formal' interview style you seem to be discussing.

I have always held first interview by telephone - so I have no idea what the person looks like (or what they are wearing). Why? because for me one of the most important questions is what will this candidate sound like on the telephone talking to new business prospects or existing customers? Will they give the right impression of my company in their voice? If they do only then do i meet them and I'm happy to see them whatever they turn up wearing. When talking on the phone customers and agents need to be relaxed, calm and approachable - that then allows a relaxed and open conversation and ensures happy customers.

I always found working as an agent that I performed at my best when I was comfortable and confident. Wearing a smart suit doesn't always do that for me so why should I expect to get the best out of folk by insisting that they turn up in clothes that are uncomfortable to wear and make them someone else. True personality traits will always out themselves and hiding them under a smart suit or dress only delays their appearance. My advice get to knwo what you're working with from the outset and you're more likely to have a happy and long term relationship.