As we welcome 2012, clean up the desk and strategically plan the course of the year for business and personal gain, it’s the perfect time for a check up from the neck up on your professional image. Courtesy of what’s been going on for Image Quest clients during 2011, here are the twelve biggest challenges we ticked off the list and got handled. It’s no great surprise that when you present well your confidence increases and you perform at significantly higher levels in your personal and professional life. So, we reckon that as a professional in business, this is a list of 12 things you should know by now. And if you don't, get with the program and get a wriggle on!
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| suits your face & personality |
1. Your most flattering hairstyle.
This does not sound like it’s a tough one but trust me, not all hair stylists know what they are doing. If they don’t know you, your work or your lifestyle they are below average on the scale. Your hair stylist is a major image maker. They must create a style to suit you as an individual, respect your style direction and be a reflection of how you earn your income. You can’t afford to get this wrong.
2. Transform a business outfit from work to cocktail/dinner/drinks in 3 simple steps .
You are too busy to think about a complete change of clothing. You know that! Your business suit will serve you well to transform for cocktail the minute you change your earrings to add a little sparkle (diamonds or zircons that drop and dangle are perfect). Next change your top to a simple silk cami. The sheen will transform into evening. Forget the cleavage. You are still in a work environment! Add a little depth to your lipstick and you are done.
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| Use an accent colour for a coat or jacket |
3. What to wear for the annual conference?
Business casual is the order of the day here. Ditch the suit and relax the code a little. This does not translate into denim, track pants or what you would wear at home or on the beach. Smart casual pants and a relaxed knit top with a smart casual jacket will serve you well. Use one jacket in an accent colour for you that will work back with each outfit. Take a wrap. Sometimes the air conditioning is way too cold. The blokes like it that way. A flat to medium heel is well received.
4. How to choose an appropriate business shoe that IS comfortable
Your best business shoe is leather and at between one and three inches high. A wedge gives you a solid base and will ensure you are taken seriously in business. Keep the colour in a neutral. Match your hair colour. Check out this utube video on topping and tailing with hair and shoes http://bit.ly/wL4eb1 Get topy soles put on and consider gel inserts. They will add to your comfort levels. Purchase only quality. You are worth it!
5. How to identify your best business handbag without changing it every day
You need to carry your ipad, perhaps a laptop, phone, essential bag stuff including some jelly beans so what you need is a tote and preferably one on wheels. Shoulder straps can do some damage to your garments you have invested wisely in. Carrying two bags is cumbersome and has you look a little disorganized. Check out The LuggageProfessionals for a brilliant solution. Remember a light coloured lining means you can see the contents of your bag easily.
6. The role accessories play in extending your wardrobe
Boring basics like your suits, simple tops and basic shoes are the staples of your wardrobe. Accessorising close to the face with earrings, necklace or a scarf is what makes the same suit-top combination a completely new outfit. Think about this one – saves money! Your collection needs to consist of six to ten pieces that work back with all your basics. Choose them in your signature colours for rapport building in business. More about that here: http://bit.ly/yuLjSB
7. How to use contrast like a leader
Leaders use contrast to their advantage. This is a skill you should know by now. Contrasting light/dark close to your face using a light top and darker jacket will bring the focus of attention to your face and what you are saying. Check out how it works here: http://bit.ly/AeFtsD
8. How to apply a professional daytime make up in a flash
Research has proven that women who wear a moderate amount of make up consistently are rated as being more professional among their peers. Leaders are consistent. Role models know how to play this game.
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| www.pencity.com.au |
9. The importance of your professional accessories
A simple thing often forgotten. The pen you use and your mobile phone speak volumes about you. Choose a quality pen that reflects your position. Similarly, choose the ring on your mobile phone with care. You can’t afford to have ACDC as your ring tone.
10. Understand your unique signature colours
Wearing them helps immensely with rapport building. Politicians, news readers and leaders understand this well. Make it work for you. It’s a powerful tool. Get the visual here: http://bit.ly/yuLjSB
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| Fabrics and shapes to suit you |
11. How to get casual Friday right
The only rule here is that when the dress code relaxes the quality must increase. If your work place allows denim wear it dark and great quality. Keep in mind you are a leader. Make sure you still look like one on Fridays.
12. Know your best shapes and fabrics
Depending on your body shape and structure some fabrics will drape and grace your shape better than others. Balancing your proportions and eliminating distraction will serve to enhance your professionalism.
What will YOU tackle this year to sharpen your image? Here’s to your success in 2012!
