How you dress and present yourself makes a major impact in how you are received. You are not dressing for your comfort or to make a fashion statement, but to impress and connect with customers or clients. People look at the surface and your outward appearance. In business, you need to embrace this reality.
Start with understanding the customers you are meeting and what expectations those customers or clients are likely to have. One key rule is to dress at the appropriate level expected by your customers or clients. For example, an attorney would wear a business suit, even if a client turns up in jeans. In today’s casual environment, we tend to dress down, often for our own comfort or as a way of self-expression.
Trust is one message you want to impart to customers and how you dress will convey a message of trust … or the opposite. The white coat of a physician is a symbol of trust. A salesperson selling high-end jewellery needs to dress professionally to send the message that the salesperson, like the expensive jewellery, is substantial. You should dress as you want to be seen – serious, proficient, experienced and ready to meet needs.
Some work environments, such as the counter staff in the spare parts section of a motor corporation, are appropriately casual. However, in a laid-back environment, be careful not to confuse casual with unprofessional behaviour. Wearing jeans does not mean you can neglect business etiquette.
In addition to your apparel, you need to practice good grooming on the job. Excess cologne, perfume and jewellery will detract from your ability to communicate with customers or clients. Keeping hair well groomed, shoes clean and polished, and fingernails presentable are a few important small details to keep in mind.
Consider the circumstances and customer environment. If you should meet with a client whom you know will be wearing a T-shirt, shorts and sandals, you need not wear a suit but your dress code should nevertheless be smart casual.
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