Are you sending the right signals? What does your appearance say about you? Do you want to get promoted?
While professional success is associated with many qualities and skills, appearance also plays a major role, as it can convey both positive and negative things.
Although you may have heard the saying “Tell me how you dress, and I’ll tell you who you are”
Our bodies send signals through the way we dress, as well as through the way we sit and even our gestures. A professional image can make someone seem approachable, assertive, formal, organised, or even disinterested.
Have you ever thought about how our appearance affects us at work? It can make a difference whether you want to close a sale, get a promotion, or apply for a job—you need to look presentable and well-groomed.
Politicians are a clear example. Some even hire image consultants to help them convey their innocence through their appearance, with the aim of getting more votes in their campaigns.
Of course, your outward appearance should reflect who you are on the inside. But it is easier to attract others with your outward image than with your inner qualities. The secret is to capture the audience’s attention first; once you have done that, it is easier to show them your abilities and skills.
Here are 5 tips to improve your professional image
Think about your goals and dress accordingly.
When shopping or choosing what to wear in the morning, think about your life goals. If you want to be seen as a professional, mature, organised and efficient person, buy or choose formal suits or dresses. On the other hand, casual, youthful clothes in bright colours could make you seem immature, childish and irresponsible.
Why clothing colours matter
You may have heard of colour psychology. Every colour has a meaning, so it is important to dress accordingly. For example, if you want to project confidence and leadership, you could wear blue. Brown, on the other hand, could make you seem bitter, closed-off, serious or even rustic. So be careful when choosing what to wear to an important work event or meeting.
Experiment with different clothing textures
Different textures create different impressions. Heavy, smooth fabrics can make you look professional and elegant. On the other hand, be careful with lace, prints or sheer fabrics, as they could make you look less formal and serious. Leave those for TV stars, who tend to be more extravagant and simply want to attract attention.
Know your body type
As you know, we are all different, and even if two people wear the same trousers, they will not look the same. It all depends on your body type. Do not be swayed by fashion or by an outfit on a mannequin in your favourite shop window. Learn to recognise your body type and dress to flatter it; otherwise, you may end up looking a little unkempt.
Pay attention to the details
Always remember to pay attention to the little details. Even if you are wearing a good outfit, an improperly ironed shirt could make you look uninterested, disorganised and informal. By contrast, a well-pressed suit, clean shoes and a tie at the right length give the impression that you pay attention to detail and can run a business.
If you are going to work for a company with strict standards for appearance, remember to consider things like tattoos, piercings, accessories, and your hairstyle and hair colour. These days, many of us have tattoos or use bright hair colours. For women, inappropriate or informal makeup can send the wrong message. If you plan to have any of these, make sure the company does not mind such details.
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Other things can also affect the impression you make at first glance, such as your facial expressions, how you move your feet and hands, your gestures, or even the way you sit. Be mindful of your hands: it is said that putting them in your pockets makes you seem mysterious, as if you are hiding something, and can make you appear untrustworthy.
Be confident and walk like a successful person: stand tall and look straight ahead. Do not walk hunched over or looking down, as this will only make you seem insecure and unsociable.
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Show that you are a respectful, well-mannered person with values and goals. Look people in the eye when you speak, do not interrupt, listen, and show that you are attentive and available.
Your outward appearance can be very important at first glance, but never forget that your personality should match what you want to project. Always remember your skills, knowledge and what you have to offer, because good clothes cannot give you those things.
