Why Your Appearance Matters To Your Career
You only get one chance to make a good first impression, and when it comes to your career you should always make sure it’s a good one. While your skills, personality, and experience are all important, your appearance is far more of an issue than you might realize. When you look professional people are likely to take you far more seriously, and the way you present yourself could be the difference between gained and lost customers and clients. Here are some of the areas to address in your appearance if you’re serious about succeeding in your career.
Clothes
The way you dress sends people a clear message. The right clothing choices will make you look smart, well put together and generally show that you are organized and on top of things. Everything should be clean and ironed properly, and shoes should be free of scuffs or significant wear. Choose attire that’s suitable for your work. For example, office wear should be trousers or a skirt and tights, or a smart dress. A crisp shirt and a jacket or cardigan depending on how formal your office requires. It goes without saying that nothing should be too short, tight or revealing.
Hair
Unkempt hair can make you look lazy, unclean and generally make a bad impression all round. Research has shown that hair that is cut, styled or dyed in a ‘statement’ way is seen as a negative factor by most interviewers. Your personal style should come second to your professional career, and so it’s a good idea to avoid wacky cuts or styles or unnatural colors. Keeping it clean, neat and tidy and styled in a suitable way is your safest bet.
Teeth
Teeth are a window to our overall health, and also give a good indication of the way that we look after ourselves. Even if you weren’t blessed with a gleaming, straight white set- keeping them in good condition is important. Missing or damaged teeth can be corrected with a crown or bridge or better still, dental implants. These are permanent, long lasting solutions which will dramatically improve the look of your smile. Discoloration can be fixed with professional teeth whitening, or veneers. A great smile will make you
Tattoos
Tattoos are becoming more and more accepted in the workplace. However, it’s always best to err on the side of caution. There’s not much you can do if you already have tattoos in visible places. But if you don’t and are considering one then think very carefully. Some interviewers, for example, will be instantly put off by this, possibly slowing your career progression. Keep tattoos to places that can be easily covered and avoid the hands, neck and anywhere on or near the face. There are plenty of other places you can get a discreet tattoo. So if you’re hoping to go far in a professional career, it’s just not worth the risk.
The Bottom Line: Appearance Matters!
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