Professional Image AT THE CORE This topic examines: ➤ THE CONCEPT OF A PROFESSIONAL IMAGE ➤ ATTRIBUTES OF A PROFESSIONAL IMAGE ➤ THE IMPORTANCE AND SIGNIFICANCE OF A PROFESSIONAL IMAGE ➤ THE EFFECTS OF A PROFESSIONAL IMAGE ON SELF-CONFIDENCE ➤ DEVELOPMENT OF A PROFESSIONAL IMAGE t may seem somewhat unfair to judge an individual by appearance and behavior rather than exclusively on performance; but in most business environments, judgments are made about people based on the professional image they display as a result of appearance and behavior. This occurs before the individual’s level of competence or performance is determined. Judgments are made about people both internal and external to the organization as they interact with people. Consequently, the significance of professional image can be substantial in the business world, and you should be aware of this as you develop your personal standards for appearance and behavior. “Nothing succeeds like the appearance of success.” —Christopher Leach Although some standards of appearance for professional dress have changed over the last decade, certain expectations remain for appropriate and professional appearance in the business environment. The business world is still more conservative than liberal in its regard I 1 ProfessionalImage_body 8/1/02 10:58 AM Page 1 for professionalism. You should seize the opportunity to distinguish yourself positively in a sometimes lax environment by adopting high standards in your professional appearance. This could be a significant factor in your career advancement. In the business environment, you must understand what constitutes a professional image in order to effectively meet the standards and expectations you set for yourself. In addition, you must recognize the importance of a professional image and how this affects self-confidence; interaction with peers, customers, and supervisors; and ultimate success in your career mobility. Professional image can be viewed from two major perspectives: appearance and personal behavior. In the area of appearance, you want to develop your ability to dress appropriately and present yourself in an attractive manner. In the area of personal behavior, you want to develop your communication skills and your finesse in the use of proper manners and etiquette as well as recognize the importance of appropriate personal behavior. Finally, you should identify resources for image development so you are aware of and can maintain a professional image throughout your career. “Looking the part helps get you the chance to fill it.” —Macolm Forbes The Concept of a Professional Image Exactly what is a professional image? Is it how you dress? Your grooming? The quality or cost of your clothing? What creates an individual’s professional image? “Your professional image is the image you project in the professional business world.”1 A professional image is an overall concept that is a composite of many aspects of your appearance. 2 Professional Image ©PhotoDisc ProfessionalImage_body 8/1/02 10:58 AM Page 2 Professional image consists of personal appearance with regard to clothing, grooming, manners and etiquette, personal behavior, and communication effectiveness. Attributes of a Professional Image The four main attributes of a professional image include: • Appropriate professional appearance. • Use of correct manners and etiquette. • Appropriate personal behavior. • Effective communications. Each of these attributes has many aspects in your achieving the overall appropriate and positive image you desire. It is important to pay attention to detail and to remember at all times that your professional image is a composite of both your appearance and your behavior. Appropriate Professional Appearance. Professional appearance is a composite of your professional dress and your grooming. The message communicated is a result of the combination of these two factors. Professional dress can be defined as dressing in such a manner as to enhance your authority, promote your respect, aid in your promotion, and promote your advancement opportunities in the workplace. Professional dress involves appropriate