Are you the right Image?
Tips and tricks to consider in making that first impression count
What is Image?
Image is a ‘mental perception’ of a person or organisation, it is the way other people see us and is usually based on how a person looks, talks or behaves.
More than ever, we live in an era of appearances and power dressing. It is all about looking the part and projecting the right image. Image matters because so very often people often make judgments based on limited information so it is important to make that first impression count.
Believe it or not but in the first 5 seconds your image influences the people you meet.
Within the first 30 seconds people with start to form opinions about you, based on what they see, hear and sense. It is that impression which often lasts a lifetime.
Take this into consideration:
Many capable men and women are passed over for job opportunities and promotions everyday because they simply do not look the part
An ill fitting suit can be seen from miles away and have a damaging effect on your image.
More than two-thirds of Australians surveyed have felt inappropriately dressed at a business or social function.
How you look reflects how you feel about yourself.
A good suit is an investment.
Importance of Shoes – they define you as much as your clothes.
BlackLine Top tips:
We have all heard the saying ‘dress for the job you want, not the job you have’ nothing is further from the truth.
Dress according to the type of work you do. For instance, finance is more corporate than let’s say advertising.
Get measured! To ensure you know what size you are and what you’re looking for. Any reputable retailer will do this for you. This is inclusive of your neck, shoulders, sleeves, chest, waist and inseam. Once you know your size you are free to hit the dressing rooms.
Fabric – Try worsted wools, they wear well and good year round.
Gents…
Nothing says sloppy more than a pile of fabric bunched up at your ankle or dragging on the ground! Hem, hem, hem. It’s a small investment to have you looking your best.
To cuff or not to cuff? Cuff less – makes you look taller, cuffs are targeted to a more mature consumer.
Length of sleeves – Should reach just the base of thumb revealing ½ inch of shirt cuff – very classy!
2 finger rule – use two fingers to ensure your slacks or skirt fit you along the waistline.
Ensure there is no overhang on shoulders and fits well.
Men – Be Bold! Ties can be bold, solid colors and stripes are essential as they are stylish and still conservative. Your personality can be reflective on the colors you choose for ties and shirts, but ensure they are in line with your own personal coloring and the job you do.
There are many options out there to suit every body shape, color, budget and personality so it is just a matter of having your measurements, taking the time to go out there and try a few different pieces on.
When you look good – you feel good. When you feel good – you have more confidence and confidence is key in business!
Corporate Image?
Corporations understand that a positive image affects the financial bottom line. Most successful businesses spend a tremendous amount of money creating a high-valued image for their products and services.
The Company Image (its people and brand) should be reflective of the Company’s vision and goals. It is the ‘essence’ of what distinguishes one business from another.
Your people are viewed by outsiders as ‘the company’ so it is imperative they are aware of how to dress and maintain a good appearance outside of work as well as inside.
*Jennifer Black is a specialist PR executive with expertise in Public relations, Marketing and Image Consulting.
About BlackLine PR & Communications
BlackLine PR & Communications is a boutique public relations consultancy which provides innovative communication and image solutions to our clients.
To learn more see: www.blacklinepr.com.au
Further Information: Jennifer Black
