Everyone knows the importance of a first impression. But what’s even more important is making a good first impression in a work or business environment. Your clothes are a big part of that impression, so dressing appropriately is key. If you’re not sure whether your clothing is sending the right message in your workplace, read these six tips on how dressing in certain ways can impact your success. You never know what might happen when you make even the tiniest changes.
1. Successful people don’t wear flip-flops.
This should be common sense, but you’d be surprised how many people fail to realize how unprofessional flip-flops are. The same goes for athletic shoes. They’re too casual for the workplace, and certainly don’t send a message of confidence. If I walked into an office and saw someone wearing flip-flops, I would likely take my business elsewhere, and many other people feel the same way. Instead, try wearing closed-toe shoes that are at least business casual.
2. Successful people buy clothes that fit them.
Dressing for success also means dressing in your correct size. Many people wear clothes that are too big, too small, or too short for them. Make sure your pants fit comfortable at the waist and don’t stop at your ankles. Your tops should fit comfortable without being too tight or revealing. Dressing in clothes that fit well indicates to others that you know what you’re doing.
3. Successful people don’t show too much skin.
This is especially true for younger people who may not be used to wearing work clothes all the time. Showing too much skin, whether it be from a top that’s too low or a skirt that’s too short, is unprofessional. It sends a message to coworkers and potential future employers that you are not yet mature enough to join the workforce and that you may not take your work seriously. This may not be true, but it’s important that your clothing choices reflect your work skills.
4. Successful people iron their clothes.
Showing up to work or to an interview in wrinkled clothing shows a lack of interest in looking sharp for work. It’s a simple, quick thing to iron your clothes in the morning, or iron them the night before and hang them up to avoid creating new wrinkles. This attention to detail will impress others and make them much more likely to respect you as a colleague or employee. If you’re going to an interview, this is a detail that your interviewer will likely pay attention to, and will remember after you’ve left the appointment.
5. Successful people tone down their makeup.
If you love wearing tons of makeup, that’s totally your call. However, it might be best to save that for your personal time. When at work, it’s more professional to wear neutral colored makeup, and a minimal amount. This means that your makeup isn’t the thing that people pay attention to, but rather your skills and value to the company. Wearing makeup is fine, but try to keep it to a minimum and toned down as much as possible. Just stick to the basics and you’ll be fine.
6. Successful people know when they look good.
This is more of a point of confidence. Wear clothes that make you feel good about yourself, and others will notice. Wearing clothes that you like will exude a confidence that others will pick up on. This is impressive, and is something that others will take note of. Once you feel good, other good things will come your way. This is especially important for an interview. If you’re nervous about it, just wear something that makes you feel good, and you’ll be more confident when speaking to your potential future employer.
Featured photo credit: Clark Kent/Nana B Agyei via flickr.com
