Should I wear perfume to an interview?

Wearing perfume to a job interview is a subjective matter and can depend on various factors, including the company culture, the type of job you're applying for, and personal preferences of the interviewer.

Here are some considerations to help you decide:


Light & neutral fragrances

If you choose to wear perfume, opt for a light and neutral fragrance that is not too overpowering. Strong scents can be distracting or even irritating to some people.

Minimalistic approach

It's generally a good idea to keep your overall appearance and accessories minimalistic for a job interview. This applies to perfume as well. A subtle hint of fragrance is fine, but you don't want it to be the first thing the interviewer notices about you.

Consider the industry

Some industries may be more conservative, and strong fragrances may not be well-received. In such cases, it might be safer to skip the perfume altogether. In creative or less formal industries, you may have more leeway.

Allergies & sensitivities

Some people may have allergies or sensitivities to strong scents. Wearing a fragrance can potentially trigger reactions in others, and you want to create a positive and comfortable environment during the interview.

Confidence boost

On the positive side, wearing a pleasant and subtle fragrance can boost your confidence and contribute to a positive self-image. Just be sure not to overdo it.

Test it out

If you're unsure, consider wearing the perfume in a small amount for a trial run before the interview. Ask friends or family for their opinions on the strength and appropriateness of the fragrance.


In general, it's often safer to err on the side of caution and go for a more neutral approach, especially if you're uncertain about the company's culture or the interviewer's preferences. If in doubt, you can always ask the company's HR representative or check their dress code policy for guidance.

For more information regarding this topic, check out Linkedin's article on should you wear perfume or cologne for a job interview. Additionally, you can click the button below to read our article on what to wear to a job interview.

Should I wear perfume to an interview?

Are you looking for a job?

Are you looking for a job?

Now that you know whether you should wear perfume to an interview, you should take a moment to check our current vacancies page.

At 11 Recruitment, we have a range of white-collar temp and perm jobs available. We're always on the lookout for top talent to place with our clients, so we encourage you to apply for any positions that are of interest.

If none of our current vacancies are right for you, you should register for job alerts. Then we’ll be able to notify you when we receive a position that matches your profile.



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