Photo © iStockphoto/vgajic
It’s sad to see so many people make crucial image mistakes that could easily be avoided. Here are some of the worst offenders, especially when it comes to your image at work.
1. Wearing clothes that don’t fit or are wrinkled or shabby.
Clothes that are too tight make you look heavier than you are. Even a slender person can look overweight in ill-fitting clothes. Wrinkled or shabby clothes send the message that you either don’t care about your appearance or are too lazy to pay attention to details. Neither message is the one you want to be sending to the world. (For more on this topic, see the Wardrobe Strategies section.)
2. Wearing clothes that are too overexposed.
Summer often brings out the worst in people — when it comes to work attire, that is. Tank tops, shorts, flip-flops … all perfectly fine for the beach, but not the office. ‘Nuff said. (Again, you’ll find more information in the Wardrobe Strategies section.)
3. Having minimal eye contact or bad body language.
Ever noticed that people who are dishonest usually don’t make eye contact? It’s a form of non-verbal communication that speaks volumes. Look people in the eye as you speak. Sure, you might be uncomfortable sometimes, but don’t let that keep you from looking confident and trustworthy. (For more on non-verbal communications, check out the Other Aspects: Communication Skills section.)
4. Neglecting good personal hygiene and grooming.
All too often, people ignore the basics of showering, shaving and brushing their teeth (or at least maintaining fresh breath). On the opposite side, don’t go overboard on the cologne in a feeble attempt to camouflage the lack of cleanliness. No one wants to smell you from the next room, be it good or bad. (For more grooming and hygiene tips, see the Other Aspects: Grooming section.)
