Image Management: Frivolous or Fundamental?

“You won't climb the ladder of
success dressed in the uniform of a failure!”  -unknown

• Are you preparing for an interview or first
  date?
• Not called back for a job you were more than
  qualified for?
• Have you been passed over for a promotion or
  a second date?

Maybe some image management is in order?

While some people think that working in fashion and image is all about vanity and frivolousness, I don't feel this is the case.  Personal or professional appearance is a form of non-verbal communication expressed through clothing, grooming, and body language and it takes less than 3 seconds to make that impression!  First impressions are impossible to undo and nearly impossible to reverse, making those first encounters extremely important, for they set the tone for the relationship that follows. 

First Impressions on yourself:

The way you choose to present yourself affects the way you think, the way you
feel, and only then, the way others react or respond to you.  Most people
fail to recognize that the real first impression is on the wearer, affecting our self-confidence, authority, self-competence and self-respect.  It's up to you to manage your image to achieve your goals. 

First Impressions on others: 

In those first three seconds, the other person forms an opinion about you based on your appearance, your body language, your demeanor and mannerisms.  The power of personal appearance can work for you or against you, often without you even recognizing the effects.  Body language as well as appearance speak much louder than words.  Even in cultures where people don't wear clothes (or much of them), they will drape themselves in jewelry ( flowers, shells, and other nature-made treasures). It is one of the ways we communicate to the outside world who we are and what we are about.  With every new encounter, you are evaluated
and yet another person's impression of you is formed. So, whether they are in
your career or social life, it's important to know how to create a good first
impression.

How to make a good first impression:

If you want to make a good first impression, you should do something to indicate
you have spent some amount of time on your appearance (flattering hairstyle, clothes that fit properly, and subtle makeup, for starters). Be sure to dress
appropriately considering the person or people you are meeting.  Shake hands confidently and look people in the eye.  Speak at a normal level and
speed so as to make yourself understood clearly.  Smile and nod while listening.

Sometimes we are unsure of how we come across to others.  A fresh pair of eyes can make all the difference in gaining a new perspective.  Oftentimes family and friends are too concerned with maintaining the relationship they don’t tell you what you need to hear.  Or just as you probably have, have gotten used to the way you look and don't see the possibilities.  An outside person can often give us more useful feedback on how we can improve our image. 

Whether it’s time for just a tune-up or a complete overhaul, take the time to figure out what makes you look and feel your very best.  In future blogs I’ll teach you tips and techniques to make your morning routine quick, easy, manageable and above all else beautiful.  Positive change can empower you to new heights and help you achieve your goals of a beautiful, abundant life! 

Best
Wishes!

Candace Morton

Mary Kay Independent Beauty Consultant

www.marykay.com/candace94549