Translating Boss Style
• If the boss is a 'suit only' person, invest in a custom suit, or one with high-quality fabrics. The boss can spot a cheap suit a mile away.
• If the boss is 'business casual,' err on the side of dressing things up. If the boss never wears khakis, jeans or polo shirts, neither should you.
• If the boss is dressed up and of the opposite sex, men should wear a suit or blazer and tie. Women should wear a business suit or jacket with a fitted feminine shape.
• If the boss has a style that clashes with yours, incorporate elements of the boss's style without losing your own. Accessories, jewelry or offbeat shoes or socks can reflect your personal style.
• If the boss has a different body type than yours, make sure your clothes fit well, no matter your size or height. Darker colors can be slimming and more flattering.
Source: Lynne Marks, president of London Image Institute; Lois Barth, business and lifestyle coach; Lloyd Boston, style consultant and author —Ray A. Smith Write to Ray A. Smith at [email protected] and Robin Sidel at [email protected] A version of this article appeared July 25, 2013, on page D1 in the U.S. edition of The Wall Street Journal, with the headline: When the Boss Sets the Style.
If you are serious about being promoted … then take heed.
There is one problem that career women face that often goes unaddressed. It is what it means to be wearing the right clothes.
A woman’s wardrobe is an essential component of her presentation. It is as important as her handshake, her eye contact and her attitude.
The faux pas many women make is that they believe their wardrobe is a reflection of who they are. They are attempting to project their distinctiveness and their individuality. Others prefer to wear what is comfortable thinking that this is appropriate since they’ve noticed others in the office also dress this way. And then there are those who want to be known for their style and creativity. They want to stand out from the crowd.
All these women, instead of sending the right message they are signaling to those above that they are not a team player, that they are not ready for promotion.
John Agno: Decoding the Executive Woman's Dress Code (FREE ebook)
Source: John Agno: When Doing It All Won't Do: A Self-Coaching Guide for Career Women (ebook edition at $2.99 and paperback Workbook Edition $13.49)
Comments