The career fair is just a
few hours away, make sure you make the best first impression you can make with
these tips!
Though certain young
executives and the spread of casual Fridays have given “business casual” a
whole new meaning, professional dress is still incredibly important in the
workplace. This is especially true when making a first impression. No matter
how down-to-Earth or relaxed an employer seems, dressing well shows that you
respect them and their organization. As sales expert Tom Searcy explains in an
article for CBS News, there are several steps everyone should take with regards
to professional dress.
First: “Know your prospect’s
uniform.” When meeting with someone from a different company, you should always
research their dress code. This goes beyond identifying it as “business casual”
(or whatever their policy may be) since many of these terms can be interpreted
different ways. If possible, ask a contact from that group what employees wear.
Or, you can call the front desk and ask them. Getting specific information as
to the dress of the people you’ll be meeting will guarantee that you seem
professional and prepared.
Second: “Dress one step up.”
After you research the dress code of the people you’re meeting, you should make
sure to dress slightly more formally. This policy will make you seem respectful
and prepared. However, Searcy emphasizes that you should dress only one step up
from your peers. Being too over-dressed can make you seem as though you are the
odd one out.
Third: “It's not just what you wear--but how you wear it.” In
essence, this means pay attention to the details. No scuffed up shoes or
ill-fitting and wrinkly clothes. Owning a solid professional wardrobe is
important, but wearing it poorly will do little for your reputation.
Fourth: “Grooming trumps style.”
Even with a neatly pressed, appropriate outfit, you won’t earn any points if
you come into work looking disheveled. As Searcy explains “everything on
the grooming punch lists - fingernails, facial hair, haircuts and oral
hygiene—matters.” Looking polished requires personal upkeep in addition to
professional attire.
Fifth:
“Know your company’s uniform.” This point relates directly to the first
one, but just goes to show that professional dress is necessary during your day
to day work, and not just when making first impressions. Maintaining a
professional wardrobe will allow you to both fit in and make a good impression
with your colleagues and supervisors.
Ultimately, looking professional
requires an appropriate wardrobe, ironing skills (or a favorite dry cleaner!),
and personal grooming. Dressing well and at the proper level will show your
co-workers, customers, and potential employers that you value their time and
are worthy of respect yourself.
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