Fashion
5 Tiny Turn-Offs that can ruin your professional image
As a professional, everything has an impact and anything distracting or out of place can sabotage your professional image. So it isn’t only what you wear that matters; alone or together, those little details make a big statement as well, says Kimberly Law, AICI CIP, Vancouver, Certified Image and Etiquette Consultant, and co-author of the newly released book, Bushido Business. Even though your personality is important, you must take the purpose of the occasion into consideration. Although it is great to dress in a way that reflects your personality, some people take it to the extreme and don't consider the occasion or their objective. This can affect how you are perceived. People around you may feel uncomfortable if you don't fit their expectations. If you are unsure of the appropriate way to dress for the occasion, consider your goals first and dress accordingly, or follow the lead of others; then add a few finishing touches that reflect your personality.
A good fit is also crucial. It doesn’t matter how gorgeous or well-made a garment is: if it doesn’t fit properly, it won’t look good. You are not going to look well put-together; and you are not going to look credible. If it almost fits, consider having it altered. Minor alterations will make an outfit look more expensive. Even changing the buttons on a jacket can make a big difference. Alterations can make your clothing look more expensive, and make you look more successful.
The condition of your clothing and accessories is also very important. Often we will throw things on without checking if they are wrinkled or faded, if the hem is being held up by safety pins, or if the shoes are scuffed. These are all things that can send a negative message about your image and you. If you are sloppy about the way you dress and the way you take care of your clothing, you may be perceived as being sloppy about the way you do your work and how you handle other things in your life as well. Condition is very important.
Hygiene and grooming are always noticed when neglected. Poor hygiene, or perceived poor hygiene, will immediately influence peoples’ impression of you, and can hold your social and business interactions back. Hygiene includes anything to do with cleanliness, such as body odour, teeth, breath, skin condition, dandruff, etc. Nobody wants to be around somebody that smells bad or looks dirty. Grooming – such as hair care, make-up and nail care – are the finishing touches that complete your look.
Some of us forget that clothing and accessory styles subtly change over time. Although it is easy to fall into the trap of continuing to wear a suit that you have had hanging in your closet for five years, it may look dated. The lapels, silhouettes, or the number of buttons for a modern look may have changed. For women, the jacket lengths or pant leg style may have changed. Business clothing should never be flashy or extremely trendy; but at the same time it should be up-to-date and current.
For more information on Kimberly Law, AICI CIP or to schedule an interview, contact: Kimberly Law email kim@personalimpact.ca