Image in Business a matter of politics!

Image in Business a matter of politics?  

The way in which you package yourself has a direct influence on how others perceive your abilities including your sense of quality, professionalism, creativity and how you value yourself.

Just think about our political leaders: Gordon Brown may think of himself as PM in waiting but he certainly doesn’t look like it.  Most of the time he looks like he’s got dressed in the dark, picked up his clothes form the bedroom floor and has given up trying to find his comb.  One word springs to mind- crumpled.  And what about Tony Blair?  He may do ‘suited and booted’ just fine but whenever he tries to dress down (remember the slightly grubby polo shirt?) It’s just cringe worthy!

Appropriateness is what counts.  Like him or not, David Cameron manages to alter his look from formal to casual to suit his environment with great effect.  He manages to portray a relaxed confidence, whether cycling to work in combats and trainers or wearing a suit and tie.  His dress style compliments his youthful, non-confrontational approach.

It’s not just the men either.  A shining example of someone whose reportage would have been a whole lot more complimentary if she had taken the time to put a little more effort into her image is Margaret Beckett.  Whilst you cannot deny that her hair is always coiffed and her outfits accessorised, it’s usually a few too many of the wrong accessories and too much backcombing of a dated hairstyle.  All this combined with poorly fitting clothes gives and overall jumbled appearance, particularly when you stand her next to the pristine Condoleezza Rice.  That is a woman who really values the importance of personal image, from her pearly white teeth to her perfectly chosen shoes: not too high, not too sensible, not too trendy but just the right side of sexy.

So how do you make sure you’re more Condoleezza & Cameron and less Brown & Beckitt? Here are a few tips:

• Always buy the best you can afford – it really does show.
• Don’t scrimp on the grooming – scuffed shoes, dirty finger-nails and stubble will stand out no matter how well fitting your clothes are.
• Have regular haircuts and take the time to style it – every day.
• Don’t wear the same clothes twice in a row – the fibres need a chance to retract so your clothes keep their   shape (they’ll last longer too).
• Always hang up your clothes on hangers and iron your shirt.
• Don’t become predictable – update your look with new shoes, ties and accessories on a regular basis. 

Put your best foot forward    

It’s the little details that count, two in particular can make a difference: your shoes! They can make or break any outfit so don’t just reach for the same pair everyday.  Indeed, the same pair of shoes, just like clothes, should not be worn twice in a row or more.  The quickest way to update your look is with a pair of new shoes.  Look out for new colours and shapes each session.  If you don’t want to buy a whole new wardrobe a pair of new shoes will have an instant uplifting effect. 

For women (for men it’s more tricky unless you work in a creative industry) shoes are a great way to bring a bit of colour into your wardrobe and show your personality.  LK Bennett always has a great selection of colours in appropriate styles every season.

For men a lace-up style with a suit usually works best.  If you are more business casual or dress down slip-on or loafer style can look more contemporary. 

Open-toed shoes should always be avoided if you work in a professional environment. For women sling back styles can be a cooler and more acceptable option over a full shoe once it starts getting warmer. (graphics look for a nice sling back shoe, bright colours if possible)

• Look after your shoes and they will last longer:
• Spray suede or nubuck leather shoes with a protective spray before wearing.
• Polish leather shoes regularly. If they get wet allow to dry thoroughly away from direct heat. If it’s a very fine sole get them re-soled too before wearing.
• Invest in some shoe trees to help them maintain their shape.

CMBimage is the corporate division of colour me beautiful. Established for 24 years we offer a range of programs designed to show individuals and organisations how to get the best from their employee’s image.

For more information click: www.cmbimage.co.uk info@cmb.co.uk or
Tel: 020-7627-5211 Ext 214.

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