You're working at home and nobody's going to see what you're wearing so it doesn't matter what you throw on, does it? Actually clothes do have a huge effect on mood and confidence.
Numerous studies have shown that we make judgements about new people on the basis of the first few minutes of meeting them, and that those first impressions are extremely hard to change later. It's therefore crucial that your appearance and behaviour project the right image to your clients, associates and the general public. The right image certainly starts with what you wear and how well groomed you are, but it embraces a lot more too.
I know it's glaringly obvious but always wear the kind of clothes appropriate to your occupation. It's not just a question of cleanliness and condition – turning up in unsuitable clothes will put people off their stroke and make them question your suitability for the job.
If you're not sure about what to wear or what suits you, ask someone who is always well turned-out for their advice. If you're not sure about asking friends for help – and the danger is that you end up as their clone – many department stores offer a free personal shopper who will handpick a selection from across the store for you to try. They should give objective feedback rather than subjecting you to the hard sell, but there is usually no obligation to buy. The friend might come in useful if you feel you need moral support or a second opinion.
Getting your colours done by a professional consultant might seem expensive but I've never come across anyone who regretted the investment. Wearing the colours that suit and uplift you makes a huge difference to your appearance and confidence, whether you are male or female. Ask if the consultation will also cover the style of clothes that best suit your body shape, for example, tailored or more flowing. Once you know that you will wonder how you made mistakes so often before and you'll save lots of money by not buying anything that doesn't flatter you.
It might seem superfluous to mention personal hygiene now there are so many grooming products for both men and women, but the fact is I do still encounter people in work situations with BO, bad breath and dirty hair. That kind of person is so unaware that they are unlikely to be reading this article, but maybe if you know one, you'd like to pass it on to them with a bookmark in this page. Seriously though, stressful situations like interviews and tricky meetings can literally make us sweat, as can public transport in the summer, so be prepared and don't be the subject of office gossip. Many years ago, while working as a personnel officer, I had to give the 'I'm afraid you smell' talk to a member of staff and it was very uncomfortable.
I used to know someone who ran his own business and was popular with everyone who knew him – but I can't have been the only person to notice his habit of constantly scratching his groin. We all tend to have unconscious habits that surface when we're nervous, and that we're totally unaware of until someone points them out or until we get videoed at work. Most aren't quite as extreme as my example, but repeated nose scratching, hair pulling or playing with jewellery can be irritating and undermine your professional image. Plus, if the last two are done by women, they can give a business encounter a flirtatious edge that might be very unwelcome.
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Note: This article was sent to us by: Linda Dyce at 05302010
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