Billings’ First Interstate Banks Want You to Clean Out Your Closet

You only get one first impression.

This may not matter 90% of the time when you don't care. For example, when you're just running to the store to get a gallon of milk and a loaf of bread. Go ahead, wear sweatpants and a tee shirt! It's the grocery store. Who cares? And you're certainly not trying to impress anyone when you stop to pump gas, or while mowing your yard, camping, or stopping at your neighborhood dive bar for a coldie after work.

I'm all about "who cares what others think about how I dress!", except when it comes to work. Starting with the job interview, employers will certainly notice your appearance. Once hired, co-workers (and probably your boss) will also notice if your clothing style is dramatically different than everyone else.

First Interstate Bank is hosting a "Clean Out Your Closet" clothing drive.

Many companies in Montana have fairly lax "business casual" dress codes at work. Nice jeans and a polo or button-down-style shirts are common for men (and women) at the majority of businesses. Those in financial industries or other more professional jobs may expect a shirt and tie for men and a dress/skirt or acceptable business attire for women. Online university Purdue Global shared some great insight on how to determine what to wear to an interview HERE.

Dressing the part for a new job can be stressful, and expensive.

First Interstate Bank's community outreach team wants to help this month, with their "Clean Out Your Closet" clothing drive, supporting non-profits in the Billings area. Clothing drop-off boxes are now up in the lobbies of all Billings area bank branches, including Laurel and Columbus.

New or gently-used business attire is wanted.

The clothing drive runs through June 30th, and the bank is looking for clothing that may help job seekers on their next job interview or first week of work. In a press release, First Interstate Bank's Billings Market President Brian Brown said,

Many of us are cleaning out closets and reorganizing this time of year, and it's a great opportunity to pick out old suits, jackets, slacks, shoes, or other workwear items that are ill-fitting or no longer serve you. These items can be a part of someone's transition back into the workforce and the start of their new future.

Clothing must be clean and not contain rips, tears, or stains. Please don't use this clothing drive as a dumping ground for your worn-out, nasty clothing, that should really go to the landfill instead. Learn more about First Interstate Banks' commitment to community service, HERE.