Image@Work Club

Cell phones -– How did we ever survive without them? But unfortunately with each new technology comes a whole new set of bad manners, and cell phones have certainly brought out the worst in some people.

Quiz

Lately I've noticed what poor communication skills many otherwise professional people have. A person can run a multi-million dollar company, yet not write complete sentences! Sometimes, they have an assistant to "clean up" their communications, and other times they hire a professional copywriter.

While the skill of writing may not be shared by everyone, anyone can work on basic language skills such as spelling and grammar. This includes all forms of communication, such as writing, e-mail and speech.

Eye glasses have come a long way since the early days (1300s) when only the wealthy wore them. Today about 70% of the U.S. population wears glasses (or contacts), according to a March 2000 Gallup poll.

Other tips have covered how to make sure your wardrobe purchases are the best possible investments. But wouldn't you love to also see your existing wardrobe last longer?

Nothing kills a professional image faster than stained clothing. If an accident happens, make sure you spot-clean as soon as possible after the incident. Don't assume that just washing in hot water (if it's a washable garment) will make it look new again. Hot water actually can set stains and make them permanent.

Instead, attack the stain as soon as possible using the appropriate stain removal tool.

It's a question I hear all the time: "I want a new hairstyle, but how can I find the right one for me?"

The first place to start is the same place that I recommend for any image makeover -- with magazines or catalogs. Cut out photos of hairstyles that you like, whether for length, color, texture, or whatever. It doesn't matter at this point whether or not you have anything in common with the wearer. You're simply building a style file.