Dressing For Success

The other day I had the privilege of speaking to a wonderful business marketing guru.  I told her that I was invited to speak at a convention..granted it was only for 5 minutes along with other guests...but they decided there was no time for me and one other person because things were not progressing as planned. I had been prepared, got my mini talk all ready for the group and blammo!   Never had a chance.  Her question was, "How were you Dressed?"  Well I had on a skirt below the knee, matching blouse, cute shoes.   She dug a little deeper. What I found out was that even though I was dressed appropriately, it really wasn't shouting 'business professional' all over the place!   So then, what tells people that you are a professional?  How do you dress when you go out in the public eye?  These are things I needed to know!

First of all, I found out that when you are doing your errands, it's important even then to dress for success.  That means no sweats, no jeans and sneakers, no pajama bottoms and a junky ole shirt.  What it means is you can wear jeans on your errands, but dress' em up with nice shoes and a pretty shirt/blouse, maybe a scarf around the neck.   Put on your best face (I don't wear makeup, so I'm sure to have my hair done nicely - combed, barrettes, what have you.    If you are working at an expo or speaking somewhere, dress in business casual unless it's a dress up affair.  Business casual can be Khaki pants, nice shirt, blazer, nicer shoes (not sneakers), light makeup (look your natural best!).  Or some may choose a business suit with skirt or pants and blazer works well too.   

Then, what about your attitude?  Did you know that how you feel about yourself on the inside shows all over your face?  Hold your head high, believe in yourself, and SMILE!  After all, you are in business, you want to give your prospective customers the right influence.  You are successful. First impressions can make or break future decisions.  And be yourself!   Show  your customers you care...after all its all about them, right?  Be attentive, be a good listener and see what their needs are. (more on these subjects later!)

Anyhow, after all was said and done, I really thought about my little outfit and honestly, I looked 'cute' but not professional.   I'm learning so much every day about how to be professional.  And I'm working to dress appropriately when I am out and about or doing lectures.