E
ver feel like people are
judging you before you have a chance
to introduce yourself? Within only onetenth of a second, you create a first
impression. The way you dress can
strongly influence interpersonal
connections, your chance at a new job
and how you feel about yourself. This
article will help put you on the path to
success – or at least prevent you from
getting in your own way.
Whether you find yourself in a workrelated or social situation, ask yourself
how you would like others to perceive
you. If, for example, you are going on a
job interview, you will want to dress
modestly and conservatively. Go to the
workplace and observe how others are
dressed. Another way to get this insider
information is to call the receptionist
and ask what your interviewer typically
wears to work. That being said, it is
better to err on the side of caution. A
suit and a tie for men is considered
business attire. Women have more
options including wearing a pants suit, a
tailored dress, or a blouse and jacket
with a skirt.
For some individuals, it is difficult to put
on an appearance that doesn’t fit with
how they see themselves. Here are
three tips to overcome this barrier
through developing an improved sense
of self:
1.
Take inventory of your
abilities. Ask yourself what you do well
and what you’re especially proud of. You
can also survey your friends, family and
coworkers to get their opinions.
2.
Take inventory of your
interests: What organizations or causes
do you belong to? Are you involved in
any volunteer work, spiritual causes, a
sports team, or book club? These
affiliations give you a sense of what is
important to you.
3.
Take inventory of your
career: You likely spend more time
working than doing anything else. What
activities do you engage in
professionally? What led you to
choosing this line of work?
If after finishing the above exercise you
still have trouble moving past an
internal roadblock to dressing for
success, use the “fake it ‘til you make it”
Your appearance also has an impact on
strategy. Envision what you would like
your sense of confidence. Ever notice
for yourself and dress to fit that role.
that when you are feeling down you
This is a good way to trick your brain to
tend to wear the same clothes several
think differently. It also helps break a
days in a row? Women sometimes
negative cycle whereby you look how
report that despite their usual routine,
you feel and feel how you look. Take a
they refr