This will not be the first (or last) time you hear it: dress for success. But what is at the root of this idiom? In what ways can looking your best boost your professional life? Studies have shown that your style can significantly impact the way you are perceived by others, thus paving the way for greatness in your professional life. Looking your best at work, particularly if you’re an entrepreneur running the show, will establish great confidence in your leadership abilities. Read on to get the skinny on the numerous ways having impeccable style can skyrocket your career and improve all aspects of your life.
Making an Entrance
Whether you’re just starting out in your new professional role or have a longstanding position, it is never too late to amp up your style. It can feel intimidating to enter a workplace with a new look, but this bravery is always rewarded. Move forward with the confidence that results in taking pride in your appearance. Get that sleek, new haircut you’ve been eyeing on Pinterest and splurge on that modern pantsuit that you just know you’re going to look fantastic in. These are the ‘treat-yourself’ moments that help the art of making an entrance exhilarating and successful.
For the entrepreneur, first impressions are particularly important. Likely, you have no shortage of opportunities to make a splash in the first impression because this role requires constant networking and attending meet-ups where you are always meeting new people. Be flexible! Do not miss the chance to let your style boost your success. Every networking event, every coffee date with a client, and every typical day in the office is an opportunity to wow.
It is not new information that a first impression should not be taken lightly. A great first impression has the ability to convey confidence and competence. If you’re struggling with second-guessing a look, get advice from your most fashionable (and honest) friend for feedback. Maybe you offer to buy your stylish bud a fancy meal in exchange for accompanying you on a shopping spree. At the end of the day, trust your gut. If you feel good in an outfit, this will translate! But don’t forget to be open-minded and try on outfits you wouldn’t typically wear. Out-of-the-box thinking is what makes you a successful entrepreneur, right? So, why not apply this to your wardrobe?
Knowing Your Audience
Okay, this is a big one. You don’t want to be the professional equivalent of someone missing the memo and showing up to a black-tie event in a suggestive Halloween costume. Do your research when you’re entering new territory, whether this be a meeting, or a networking event or just your first day at a new job. Most experts agree that it’s best to overshoot your look rather than undershoot it. This is to say, aim for a bit dressier if you are unsure what the vibe is going to be at an event. Always keep your eyes peeled for a modern corporate dress that compliments your body type. Showing up in more casual attire when the majority are in professional clothing can be a real detriment to your confidence, not to mention, can get you unwanted attention from people you could otherwise be forming professional bonds with. Use your best judgment.
The right outfit has the ability to tell potential clients or partners that you’re a trusted and serious player in this field. Nailing your wardrobe at an event brings the right kind of attention to you and piques the interest of possible networking opportunities. Every entrepreneur understands how these connections are not to be missed in this cutthroat world where the details matter most.
Think about it. If you only have several moments to impress a big player, you’re going to want to make it count. Do this by being prepared. Formal business attire can non-verbally convey seriousness and prove one to be dedicated to the bigger picture (i.e., business success and money making). If you’re attending an even more formal event, do your research on styles that convey sensibility rather than flashiness. If you’re a woman, this could mean an elegantly high neckline rather than a low-cut, high-slitted number. (Not because you shouldn’t rock those, too, just know your audience and when it is appropriate to do so!) A sloppy or unkempt look can do the opposite, perception of your capabilities could be interpreted as negative and a business go-getter knows better than anyone, you simply can’t risk this. So, whether you’re someone who loves fashion or someone ambivalent about it, you’d be doing yourself a favor to pay close attention to ways to improve your own.
Furthermore, depending on the specific field you are in, the fashion expectations will differ greatly. A person in the flashy entertainment scene will have a drastically different style than someone working in finance. Again, it’s important to do your research and figure out what the norm is in your particular field to ensure optimal career enhancement based on your style alone.
The Immediacy of Style
Style matters so much because of its immediacy. Style, unlike (most) personality types or business practices, cannot be ignored even if you interact for a short period of time. Think about when you meet someone and feel particularly drawn to the way they dress and carry themselves. This is likely someone with confidence in their style. The good news? This is achievable for everyone, not just limited to those who have an innate sense of what looks great on them.
If you were to spend time with someone whose style you appreciate, you’d likely be talking to someone who is quite confident in themself and has a strong footing in the world, particularly if they are an entrepreneur. Ask for advice from this person! Networking can take all forms, after all.
Take the Leap
Having great style is something that can evolve over time and be something you continue to cultivate until you hit a sweet spot. Great style translates to great respect in the business world but requires a good deal of bravery. The question remains, are you ready to take a leap?
