MeMag June 2014.pdf Jun. 2014 | Page 7

A few suggested guidelines are• Pre-plan your business wardrobe and have an “emergency” outfit on hand. • Go for cuts/styles that flatter you rather than what you “like”. • Do learn about dress codes and etiquette Confidence for different situations and places, particuThe modern business professional exists in larly as regards “business wear”, “smart a competitive world where the slightest adcasual,” “Black tie”, “Formal”, etc. The goal vantage is valuable beyond measure. Proshould be to always dress appropriately for jecting a confident and competent aura is the occasion. not a skill that is developed overnight, and becoming proficient at doing so is a prodThe cardinal rule for achieving a profesuct of time and experience. Developing sional look is simple: “Less Is More”. your craft with competence and expertise is therefore an incremental concept, and fundamentally enhances your Personal Brand. rooming Personal hygiene is the most fundamental, yet easily overlooked part of our appearmage ance and image. Smell and Vision are the Never underestimate the importance of key drivers is managing this challenge, as your appearance in business. Be conscious they work from a distance: if you don’t look of and deliberate in how you portray your or smell nice, no one will want to be near businesses and yourself. Being Image Aware you for any period of time! is not the same as being Image Conscious, as the latter is superficial where the former To be groomed and well turned out pay is integral. Your dress style should positive- careful attention to the following: ly reflect the expectations and traditions of G I Never Underestimate the importance of your appearance in business your chosen business or profession. Understanding the age and gender peculiarities of your body shape, skin tone, and overall physique would be very helpful in selecting the best cut, colour and combinations of apparel and style that would best suit you professionally AND personally. J U N E 2 0 1 4 MeMag | • Body Odor – Bathe regularly; keep all bodiliy hair neatly trimmed (particularly those open to public view) and always try to use a good antiperspirant that is neither obvious nor pungent. Never underestimate the importance of your appearance in business” prudent course of action, but also shows the sophistication and nuance that makes the difference between Arrogance and Self-Confidence. • Bad Breath – Brush regularly and don’t facebook.com/memagazine09 @memagtwits 4