John Cassidy theheadshotguy shares why he thinks we should dress for success in this guest blog. Do you agree?
Remember when we were younger and our parents used to drum into us that we should ‘never judge a book by it’s cover’? As we grow up we realise that so many of these morals can only be applied to a certain point and I’m afraid it’s the same for this one.
In a business world it’s quite simply dress to impress. I’m not saying that 5 days a week men should be suited and booted or that women should be dressed to the nines. However, in business, image is key. In the economy there are probably several businesses that you are competing with, offering the same service for a similar price. As a customer, are you more likely to do business with the companies that are dressed as 20-something year old creatives or are you going to buy from the well-groomed sharp looking businessmen?
It may well be shallow and it may be wrong but image still counts for a lot. The business world is changing with remote working becoming increasingly popular and more and more creative types are integrating with many different industries. I understand that they need their creativity to flow and that they might find it easier to be innovative and to think outside the box whilst wearing comfortable clothing. However, I also bet the majority still manage to find a crease-free shirt to throw on when it comes to pitching and negotiating.
The other thing about dressing for business, for me at least is that it gets me in a certain mindset. It gives me more motivation and I find it keeps me on track and that I am much more productive. Of course that is very much a psychological factor but nevertheless it keeps me in a working frame of mind.
Share your thoughts with John on twitter @john__cassidy
Jenny Garrett is the Executive Coach and founder of Reflexion Associates, a leadership and coaching consultancy. She’s also the author of Rocking Your Role, a how-to guide to success for female breadwinners.