Dressing for success
Regardless of how much things have changed over the years, the attire we choose to wear in a business environment is still something to take seriously. Like it or not, the manner in which we dress says a lot.
Sure, it's not important to wear a three-piece business suit to the office every day (unless your job calls for that type of apparel). However, the way we present ourselves still holds a great deal of importance in our society.
More businesses than ever are allowing employees to dress in "business casual". That being said, it is very important to know that the definition of this type of dress can vary widely from company to company. For some businesses, this could mean a shirt and tie for men. For other companies, it could mean polo shirts are acceptable. Make sure and take a good look around the office and make sure that your attire is appropriate for the office in which you call home from 9-5 on weekdays.
As much as I am an advocate for individuality and unique apparel, the office is not the place to display your avant garde sense of fashion for the world to see. The way you dress at work says a great deal about how seriously you take your job. Dressing appropriately also shows a level of respect for the company as well as those you come into contact with on a daily basis.
Depending on your job, you never know when you could be unexpectedly called into a meeting with clients, suppliers or visitors from outside the company. When people from outside the organization meet you, they will be immediately evoking an impression of the company based on how you present yourself. Clothing is a big part of the message you will be sending to them. If this just happens to be the day you chose to wear a printed t-shirt to work, it could be a source of embarrassment.
You might be the most dedicated employee in the company, but image still holds a great deal of influence in our society. If you don't present yourself professionally, you may find it more difficult to be taken seriously from a professional point of view.
There's no doubt that the workplace of today is vastly different from the workplace of our parents' generation. That being said, the manner in which you present yourself is still important and can possibly be the difference between success and status quo.
We've all heard the expression "dress for success". It's still important to this day.
Make your mark with your dedication, passion, desire and commitment. Relying on your clothes to make a statement for you can be a great choice outside of the office. At work, let your talent do the talking.
