Looking for a job can be a long and arduous task that consists of flipping through job postings in the paper, pursuing leads from your own list of connections, perfecting and submitting your resume, and finally preparing for interviews as they come.

Find out how you can improve your overall appearance with these dressing tips.

• Familiarize yourself with the universal dress code. Find out what current employees wear on the job.
• Go in a suit and tie to any company that's part of a more formal industry, such as banking or law. Choose a basic black, dark gray or dark navy suit, a matching tie and black leather lace-up shoes.
• Opt for dressy casual attire for a company that you know doesn't expect suits. Pressed khakis or slacks, a clean, ironed button-down shirt, a belt and a leather loafer will serve you well.
• Match the belt to the color of your shoes. Choose black if your outfit consists of dark grey, navy, brown or black. Opt for dark brown if you'll be wearing tans, muted pastels or medium toned colors.
• Polish or clean your shoes the night before your interview. Scuff marks on your shoes reveal a lack of forethought and attention to detail.
• Keep interview accessories professional. Take a briefcase or nice leather- or vinyl-bound portfolio to carry references or other pertinent documents. Leave tattered manila folders or college logo folders at home.
• Avoid cologne or aftershave that may overpower the interviewer.