Perfecting Your Professional Image at Work
Posted in New Jobs & First Jobs
As much as we would like to idealize, what we look like on the outside determines our chances of getting hired in a job. In fact, you may notice that even the most professional-looking employees get the most undeserving promotions (at least that's how you look at it). Do not allowed yourself to be forever stuck in a fashion black hole. Here are some ways to tweak your image and create a more professional look.
Looking professional is different from displaying your ethnicity
Some ethnic groups or races tend to be wear their heritage proudly in the workplace, such as some African-Americans who wear an Afro to work. Although a large Afro hair may be culturally significant and a proud expression of individuality, an out-of-control hair may send a negative impression that the wearer is not "in control" of himself. That does not mean you have to assimilate yourself with what your colleagues of other races, but rather you need to polish your look in order to create a positive and professional impression.
Check the office's standard
Even though a lot of organizations recommend a business casual attire to work, the interpretation can be different. A hemline above the knees that your former employer may accept may not be tolerable to your current office. A trendy outfit in an events company would be out-of-bounds in an advertisement agency.
Focus beyond your appearance
To complete your professional image, you also need to polish the way you speak. This can be a challenge to some who has gotten used to dialects whose grammar, intonation, and inflection greatly differ from mainstream English. Speaking in a professional and business-like manner at work makes your colleagues feel more comfortable towards you. How well you fit in the office would determine your success in the workplace.
