You’ve read our blog on how to be more assertive in the workplace … Still looking to really get ahead and meet your career goals? Today we’re talking professional presentation and the benefits associated with it.
Being more professional in the office can benefit your career and professional relationships in many ways. You can gain respect from others and it can help with being promoted. Chances are, one (or more) of these tips will help you win over that client, land that job, or impress company executives.
Dress well
First impressions are critical, so it’s essential to present yourself at work well dressed. It’s not about having the most expensive clothes or the latest and greatest watch. Ensure your clothes are well-fitted. Yes, you may be wearing designer clothes but if they’re too baggy it errs on the side of lazy and unprofessional. Make sure your clothes are clean and pressed, polish your shoes and please, tuck in that shirt. Highly regarded executive stylist Lindsey Shores maintains that dressing well is important to a person’s self-respect and composure. “At work, dressing well can clinch your exuberance for your career, showcase your exuberant qualities and secure your confidence,” she says.
Work hard … arrive earlier or stay later if needed
We’re not suggesting you work 12-hour day. Adding an extra half-an-hour to your day may mean the difference between completing a project on time. It also shows to others around you that you’re willing to go that little bit extra for your company and are passionate about your job. There’s nothing worse than somebody watching the clock an hour out from home time.
Keep your work and personal life separate
Everybody has a personal life, but it’s wise to limit the impact that this might have on your workplace. If you’re in a bad mood, don’t take it to work. If you’re organising something, dealing with problems or talking with friends, do it away from your desk; others don’t need to see or hear it. Step away from your desk if you need to make or receive a personal call.
Minimise your time on your smart phone
Our smart phones have become such an unprecedented part of our lives. We’re attached because they keep us up to date at the touch of a screen; email, social media, news, the latest sport score … the list goes on. A good way to be seen as more professional is to turn your phone notifications off and switch your phone to silent or vibrate mode. Yes, smart phones are now an essential part of life, but they can also be distracting. Spending too much time on your phone isn’t a good look; others will think you lack focus. Another tip; get a watch. Digging into to your pocket (particularly during meetings) to check the time on your phone can be seen as rude.
This article was written by Kaplan Professional | February 20, 2015
http://www.kaplanprofessional.edu.au/blog/how-to-present-yourself-professionally-at-work/