Developing your professional image

How can I balance the two?

~ Stylishly Undecided

Dear Stylishly Undecided,

Balancing the two begins by asking yourself the question “What does my style, manner of dress and aura say about me?” According to research from Princeton University, people assess your competence, trustworthiness, and likability in just a tenth of a second, solely based on the way you look. I am certain that you are familiar with the adage that “you only get one chance to make a first impression.” Professional image is much more than just your style in clothing.

It is the persona that you project outwards to the world. Your image and level of professionalism is communicated not just by the way you dress, but also by the way you speak, the way you respond to others, and the way that others speak about you. Essentially, it is the sum of other people’s perceptions of you. Human beings constantly observe the behaviour of others and then form opinions about the observed person, based on his/her competence, character, and commitment. Remember, if you are not managing your own professional image, others are. It is wise, therefore, to help shape the opinion that others hold of you, and this goes beyond just your style of dress.

Developing your brand comes not only from your professional accomplishments, but also from your interpersonal interactions.

In a research paper by Harvard Business School, Professor Laura Morgan Roberts said that “your professional image is the set of qualities and characteristics that represent perceptions of your competence and character as judged by your key constituents (ie, clients, superiors, subordinates, colleagues)”.

Perception is the reality that one lives in - so how do you ensure that you are perceived in the RIGHT way? Here are seven easy and practical recommendations that can assist you in building a professional image that would ensure that you are taken seriously at work.

Make Your Work Speak If you do an excellent job, others will notice. Build a reputation by doing amazing work. Work until you no longer have to introduce yourself – let your success speak for you. Make expertise your specialty - professionals know their trade. Work hard and become great at what you do. Make certain that you keep abreast in your field and give every task that you undertake your absolute best.

Treat People Like People This is my personal mantra – pay respect to everyone, even when you may disagree with them. This can be done by simply appreciating their work, giving them your undivided attention, and by maintaining eye contact when you are conversing. Show that you value them. Your professional reputation determines your success and achievements at work. That’s why it is so important to treat others with respect and honesty.

Engage in Positive Speak When speaking with colleagues, teammates and superiors, maintain a balanced and positive attitude, rather than solely harping on the negatives. Focus the discussion and actions on taking the necessary steps to achieve organisational objectives as opposed to being reactive.

Keep Your Personal Life Personal AND be Social Media Smart Set limits on the type of information that you reveal about your life outside of work. Tread carefully on conversations about your crazy weekend, family issues, or your personal finances. And be sure not to allow your social media personality to negatively impact your professional image.

Any HR professional will tell you that one of the first places they go to “checkup” on shortlisted job applicants is on Facebook or LinkedIn.

Associate With the “Right” People Be mindful of who you spend time with at work. Remember you are crafting your professional image, so you certainly would not want to be known as the personal friend of the office gossip.

Associate yourself with people and organisations that match the image you want to project.

Get a Mentor Identify someone whose accomplishments you would like to emulate, and reach out to that person for some one-onone learning time. You will be amazed at how willing successful professionals are to help others – once they are asked.

Present Smart Do you have items with loose buttons, hanging threads or worse, wrinkles? If so, have them mended, ironed, and invest in some quality pieces. The manner in which you present yourself describes your professional character, so make sure you dress the part. Express your sense of style in your colour choices, fabric textures and accessories.

Maintain good posture - standing tall and pulling your shoulders back shows confidence and competence. Eye contact transmits energy and indicates openness, trustworthiness and confidence.

Shake hands - this is the fastest way to establish rapport. A firm handshake tells a story about you.

The best accessory that you can wear is a smile - it shows that you are friendly and approachable.

Be the author of your own identity. Take a strategic, proactive approach to developing and managing your image, and your sense of style will become the secret to your success.

Here’s to the new you, AFETT.

AFETT is a not-for-profit organisation formed in 2002 with the goal of bringing together professional women and engaging in networking opportunities, professional training and business ideas. ASK AFETT is a column meant to address issues and concerns of professionals seeking advice to assist in progressing in their careers. Today’s response was written by AFETT member, Yolande Agard-Simmons, president elect of AFETT. Learn more about AFETT at www.afett.com, search for AFETT Events on Facebook, follow us @ AFETTEXECS on Twitter or contact us at 354-7130. Email us your career-related questions at admin.

afett@gmail.com.