“How you look and dress does impact your leadership brand image”, is what I said to an executive client who wanted to increase her chances of success by demonstrating a trustworthy personal brand within thirty seconds.
We are all “on show” whether at work or in our world of social and virtual media. It’s important to feel comfortable, confident and empowered with your image and look, to remain relevant and express the best version of you.
Consider these suggestions to elevate your style and the image of a leader.
Style Personality. Classic and corporate – maybe not. And certainly not if you feel uncomfortable. There are many style types including elegant, feminine, natural, creative, dramatic and rebellious.
Knowing your style preference and adding that extra edge without being completely over the top and differing from a professional appearance will give you extra clothes confidence and chutzpah.
Where you Work. In a business environment or on-stage speaking or anywhere else where you are being seen as a leader, consider the impression you want to leave on others.
When I was a student actor many years ago one teacher said he never ironed his clothes. It was obvious! And he wasn’t wearing Italian linen, subtly crushed. It didn’t matter as that was his style expression and it was part of the “image” that was suitable for that environment. Had he been going to a meeting to get investor funding for the studio, it might have been a different story as he could have been perceived as someone who didn’t care.
First Impression. Head and shoulders rule. Half of the time half of our body is missing from the big picture. We’re noticed first online. Recruiters, potential clients and often the public will see our profile picture before they meet or see us in person. Use flattering, up-to-date photographs to showcase you and use high impact, colour contrast to stand out. Experiment with what you look “wow” in rather than default to black and white.
Colour is one element that can lift you; help express your signature look and reflect your personal or business brand.
Psychologists and colour consultants say that the colours you choose to wear express more about your personality and mood than you think. How are you feeling? Full of life, creative and confident enough to take on the world? Chances are you are wearing something red. If you are feeling indifferent, or distant, you are probably dressed in black. Now that’s got your attention, as most of us in the business world tend to have our wardrobes dominated by black.
Black is also a colour of authority, elegance and power. But do you realise bright colours always make you feel happier! And can have a positive effect on customers and clients.
Choose colours that flatter you and your personal colouring to help you appear healthy and dynamic to have brand image impact.
When I am image consulting with businesspeople it’s not usually that they don’t know what to wear or have any personal style – it’s often that they are confused. They’ll wear what they think is appropriate for the office and may end up looking and feeling dowdy or are too “time poor” to shop and plan outfits so will grab the first thing off the wardrobe rack.
Long gone are strict dress codes in the workplace – unless you are required to wear a uniform – it’s more about putting yourself together so you look modern and professional.
Visual communication sends a message and with the right approach will help you be seen as a person of authority.
Need advice on how to style yourself for work? Take a look at The Secret to Your Personal Brand Revolution. Get Your Free eBook Now!
Sue Currie is an image entrepreneur who guides and empowers business leaders and entrepreneurs to have “Spotlight Confidence”. She is passionate about helping professionals elevate their personal and professional brand through her speaking, coaching and training programs on Self Brand, Style and Speaking Skills, providing a multi-faceted approach to gain high transformation for her clients.
