Best First Impressions In Business photo source nickstravelblog
Attention to the wardrobe that in the workplace will enhance the body language we’ve explored in conveying your message of being a self assured team member with authority as well as individual identity.
Today, our column is written by Leon Scott, a career coach and colleague formerly of Vancouver and now based in Seattle, Washington area.
The career starter seven pieces you need in your wardrobe to get the job or the leads in meetings
Here are seven items you should add to your closet to get your business life stylishly off the ground:
1. A high quality navy blue or charcoal gray suit is the foundation of the “uniform” for the business world. You’ll be expected to dress appropriately for your interviews. If you don’t, you won’t get hired.
This also applies to people in their own businesses because you’ll want to make a great first impression when you begin networking to promote yourself and your business.
2. Two long sleeve dress shirts or blouses – either two white ones , or a white and a light blue one as you should have an extra shirt ready to go in case one gets dirty or damaged.
In the beginning of your career, stay with the basic colors until you’re hired. They’re easy to find and easily accessorized.
3. A pair of quality black leather dress shoes as they’ll go with a wide variety of colors and they’re easy to care for. Shoe trees are a good investment as they help your shoes keep their form and ventilate them.
4. Two or more silk ties or scarves to alternate at second (or subsequent) interviews or meetings
for work and other work-related occasions.
Best to start with a conservative color and pattern. Solid colored ties and scarves, as well as striped and conservatively patterned neck-wear are acceptable; novelty ties are not.
5. A navy blue blazer is the foundation of the business causal “uniform”. It’s versatile because it can be dressed up with a tie and a dress shirt, or dressed down with a polo shirt and dress slacks. Blazers can be worn all day or can be removed if it’s too warm.
6. Dress slacks or skirts in gray or tan coordinate nicely with your blazer.
These are colors easily paired with a wide variety of other colors and can be worn year round. It’s best to purchase quality items because they’ll fit better on you and will last longer with proper care. Slacks and skirts made of wool and wool blends are your best bets.
7. Casual leather shoes for wear to events where business casual attire is called for.
Sneakers/runners/athletic shoes should be saved for events where casual dress is appropriate.
These shoes can include loafers, dress boots, etc.
For women, these would include flats, loafers, and sandals. Flip flops are only appropriate for business if activities are held on a beach or in a locker room.
Other personal choices you might like to make based on the culture of the workplace you are:
• mustache or beard – if you start clean shaven put off the scruffy stage of growth till after you’ve been hired and preserve your first impression
• hair color experimentation is best left for farther into the new situation
• hair length should still allow for a neat and clean style
• piercings (other than the ears for women) and tattoos should be in line with your company’s policies on them.
VIP: Develop your individual style and stay on track by building your wardrobe with the seven listed categories!
Leon Scott is a Certified Master Life Coach and founder of You Times Two Career & Life Coaching. He has spent over 25 years working for organizations of all sizes, owns a small business and has served in the U.S. Navy. He can be found online at www.youtimestwoonline.com
