A good friend of mine, business psychology expert and tactical strategist Peter Shallard from New Zealand recently gave away some of the “aces up his sleeve” on sales tactics via his blog. I was interested (and heartened) to see that one piece of advice in particular generated the majority of comments from readers. It was about “out-dressing” your prospect, so I decided to continue the theme and add my own thoughts on image and presentation, or what I call your “personal brand”.
I’m a firm believer in get up, dress up, show up! It doesn’t matter whether its social or business, I always believe in bringing my best self. Even on those days where I am short on time or just feel like “dialling it in”. I know that when I put on a great outfit, do my hair, make-up etc I feel more confident and that feeling leads to more energy, more self-esteem and a greater overall feeling of empowerment. Think about it, its really hard to feel crappy when you look amazing!
Now doing all this doesn’t have to take a lot of time and effort. Getting ready for any occasion is simple as long as you have a strategy, and that strategy begins way before you open the wardrobe. It begins when you review your needs, goals, aspirations and then take a good, hard look at your wardrobe and your own physical appearance. Are you doing everything within your control to ensure you look your best and present well? Be honest! If your clothes or appearance are scruffy or dated then you are sending a clear message to your colleagues and your potential clients… “I can’t really be bothered and I’m not organised enough to make the time or the effort”. Wow, that’s a powerful statement to be making and I can bet its not returning you any favours professionally or socially. I’m not talking about primping, preening peacocks here, just good old fashioned grooming and attention to detail.
If you spend a little time getting to understand the clothes that work best for your shape, the colours that make your skin and eyes glow with good health, and getting to grips with a basic (and speedy) grooming routine you can’t go wrong. This applies to men and women equally. Trust me, when you get this right, you’ll spend a whole less time worrying about what to wear and if your outfit is appropriate, and a while lot more time getting results!
10 Personal Brand Enhancers
- Smart, pressed and clean clothing – without stains, missing buttons, pulled threads, frayed cuffs etc
- Clothing that fits you well, enhances your shape and minimises any flaws
- Polished shoes and matching socks/ hosiery
- Good posture…walk tall & sit up straight – good posture can take off 10 years and 5 kilos
- Being punctual and calling immediately if something prevents from being so
- Smiling, and looking people in the eye
- Being consistent in your appearance and your actions
- Being authentic and believing in yourself
- Saying thank you…often
- Making someone feel good, just because you can.