Success Through
Self-Branding
Tips
for the Savvy Businesswoman
Our appearance
speaks volumes about us before we ever say a word.
The initial contact between two people is eye-to-body.
We look at a person�s face first, evaluating their
attractiveness. Then we notice their clothing and body language.
At this point we begin to make judgments about their
character, temperament, and professional abilities.
Hence, our image is tremendously important as we build our
reputations in business. We
must use it as the powerful marketing tool that it is, to say to
the world that we are �professional�, �credible�,
�trustworthy� and �likeable�.
Here are 10 tips to help ensure this:
-
Consistency
breeds trust.
Our message, image and body language must be consistent
with one another.
If we say that our credentials are impeccable, then our
appearance and the way we carry ourselves must be as well.
-
Project
an image of professionalism while maintaining an updated and
modern appearance.
Your wardrobe should include a combination of trends
(styles lasting 2-5 years) and classics (styles lasting over 5
years) as they will stand the test of time and prove to be good
investments.
-
A
firm handshake exudes confidence. Remember
to maintain eye contact and smile.
-
Business
cards, voicemail, websites, brochures, and other company materials
should be consistent and mirror the authentic image of your
company.
-
Don�t
wear clothes that are uncomfortable or do not radiate your
personal style.
Consult an Image Consultant for a fashion personality
assessment to help you make these choices.
-
Avoid
clutter in your environment.
An unkempt car, desk or briefcase may send signals that you
are disorganized or scattered.
-
Invest
in the right jacket.
Every woman needs at least one great jacket that even in a
more casual work environment can be paired with slacks or a skirt
for that last minute meeting.
-
Find
a great hair stylist.
Invest in an attractive, basic design and cut.
It will pay off in easy maintenance and a polished
appearance.
-
When
available, purchase all three pieces to a suit � jacket, skirt
and pants.
This interchangeable set will make mixing and matching a
breeze and packing for a business trip much easier.
-
When
visiting a company, find out what their dress code is so that you
can dress accordingly.
If your dress style is too corporate for their casual
environment, you may be judged as formal or stuffy.
If, on the other hand, they have a more formal environment
and you are dressed too casually, you stand the risk of not being
taken seriously.
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