by David R. Michaels

Created on: February 25, 2009

Recent articles in USA Today bemoaned the fact that the growing trend amongst job seekers indicates a lack of professionalism in the way they dress.
To compound the issue, this "epidemic" is even infecting corporate America as well as the hoard of interviewees looking to gain entrance into a career field. The underlying premise in both circumstances is that people today, whether actively seeking career employment or already employed in a career endeavor, do not dress for success.

This leads to the question, "Who is the professional?" The harsh reality is that whether it is blue jeans or sweats, sweat shirts or T-shirts, spiked heels or spiked hair, none of this is acceptable if you wish to find a job or be considered a professional in the corporate arena once you are there. The bottom line is simple. Both the muscle T-Shirt combined with a teddy bear stomach (guys) and dressing like Paris Hilton (gals) is unacceptable.

Consider first the 3 basic rules regarding dressing for success:

Rule #1 Image is everything. Ultimately, it is your appearance combined with the way in which you present yourself to your clients and superiors that is paramount.
Remember that an interviewer or members of upper management will make no less than 10-12 psychological as well as value judgments about you within the first 30 seconds of making eye contact and speaking to you.

Rule #2 Dressing casually does not mean dressing slovenly or tacky. In most cases, removing one's tie is about the extent of it. However, a conservative pair of dress slacks, a button-down white or light blue oxford shirt, darker and polished shoes, and a contrasting sportscoat is not a bad look.

Rule #3 Dress yourself the way you expect others to see you. In other words, there are four facets of your character/personality that should be assumed without you ever uttering a word:

You are prepared and ready to meet your clients/customersYou are a ALWAYS a professionalYou are serious about your career and your workYou achieve your goals and are upwardly-mobile

The bottom line is that personal image and well fitting clothes are everything when it comes to being a professional. Dressing professionally is a very powerful tool and is all too often overlooked.
It not only benefits the person, it also benefits the company they work for. Always remember that purchasing professional looking clothing is not just an expense, it is an investment in yourself. Dressing professionally is also a confidence builder. It enables you to be calm

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