Singaporeans Need To Polish Their Image As Brand Ambassadors

May 10, 2010 - PRLog -- Singaporeans need to give their image a boost by learning how to dress and carry themselves better, states Iconiq Image. The professional image consultancy firm observed that Singaporeans either do not put in enough effort in their dressing and grooming, or they lack the know-how.

“When you think about it, none of us has any formal education in learning how to dress or carry ourselves. If the school or our parents teach us, it’s very limited. We have to either figure it out on our own or take reference from fashion magazines and the media, which are piece-meal information,” says Catherine Chan, Founder and Image Consultant of Iconiq Image.

The government recently announced that it is looking at re-branding Singapore and one of the strategies is having brand ambassadors. Iconiq Image reminds that the role of brand ambassadors is not just confined to the officially appointed representatives. Since every citizen is an extension of the country’s brand, Singaporeans are also brand ambassadors in some ways.

It elaborated that everyone is a living, breathing brand ambassador in three areas – representing oneself, representing the organisation a person works for and the country one hails from. Irrespective of the profession and position, every person comes into contact with people everyday and impressions, good or bad, are being formed every second with potential partners, business associates, customers, investors, foreigners and more. As such, it is imperative to ensure that a person gives a good impression consistently.

The firm highlights that a lot of people do not realise that their image greatly impacts on their credibility, marketability and standing. Studies have repeatedly shown that first impressions count. Moreover, it is difficult to reverse the decisions formed by the first impressions.

It explains that the way a person presents himself, his company and/or country, can help his audience form an opinion of him, the organisation and/or country he represents, and influence the decision-making process. This is not only confined to the person who is getting the job, being promoted or nailing that deal. If one is looking for a life partner, image plays a big part too. Iconiq Image further points out that having a good image is not just about looking good. It makes the person feel more confident and positive. This directly impacts on the person’s personal and professional effectiveness and success in what one sets out to accomplish.

The firm suggested some areas of enhancements for some commonly made mistakes in image. It advises that for a start, one should think about how one wants to be perceived. Then strive to create a good visual appeal through dressing and grooming, such as following the dress code, dressing appropriately for the occasion and for work. The clothes should fit well and not look mis-matched.

“In this tropical heat, we would naturally want to stay cool and be comfortable. However, it does not equate to dressing down or looking sloppy. There are tricks to dress for this weather without having to compromise on your image. Similarly, looking sharp does not mean having to spend massive amount of money on clothes and accessories. In fact, if you know the right tricks and techniques, it will save you money, time and effort in the long run,” says Catherine.

Good brand ambassadors also watch their posture and are civic-minded, reminds Iconiq Image. Since slouching gives the impression that the person is unauthoritative and lack confidence, a good posture should not be overlooked. The company also suggests for ladies to learn to apply makeup properly and cautions that one should not leave home without makeup.

“Not wearing makeup because of the hot weather is not a good excuse. In fact, makeup can protect your skin from the harsh elements. Just as you do not step out of your house without clothes, don't leave your house with a naked face, without makeup. It's basic courtesy,” comments Catherine.

“If we want to be a cosmopolitan city, we certainly need to live up to it by projecting a more polished image. I would like to encourage everyone to take the steps to enhance your image and let your image work for you, not against you. Put in some effort to distinguish yourself. When you see the difference in how people react to you, you’ll be encouraged to do more and reap the rewards,” adds Catherine.

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We are a image consultancy firm in Singapore that provides corporate and personal image solutions to men and women.