Self presentation is so important in our world today, and has been for a long time. Humans, whether right or wrong, judge each other off of appearances. This is especially true in the working world. Whatever industry you are a part of, the way you speak, dress, and carry yourself determines how others perceive you. In a world where we only get one first impression, it is so important make sure it’s a good one.
1. Speech
I was in a conversation with a family friend a couple weeks ago who is a 9th and 10th grade English teacher at a local high school. We were discussing the importance of English in our society and how she tries to emphasize that importance to her students. She went on to explain that she tells her students that the way you speak is one of the first impressions of yourself people receive. It is so important to use proper English in conversations and when you write. This skill may seem to be a given, but they are not. I have worked in places where employees didn’t know how to speak or write in proper English, and it does hinder them in the way they are able to communicate with coworkers and customers.
2. Dress
‘Dress for the job you want, not the job you have.’ Partially working in a factory where we sometimes do physical labor throughout the day, I can’t say I always adhere by this rule. I can say, however, that I make a point to never show up to work without any thought put towards my appearance that day. Whether you are required to wear a suit to work or everyday is casual friday, you can always make an effort. I do think that in a competitive job market the way you choose to present yourself is so important. I’ve found through my own experience that when you put effort into the way y
ou look it shows that you care and put effort into, not only yourself, but also life in general. I am more productive when I am dressed for the day. Being a young professional, I have found that I’m taken more seriously when I am dressed for a job. You don’t need to buy a brand new suit every month, but you should take the extra time in the morning to present yourself well. Not only will others respond to you better, you may surprise yourself in the way you respond to life with an extra boost of confidence.
3. Walk
No, I am not suggesting that you take on a new step pattern. I do, however, think that the world picks up on how we carry ourselves. You know the people that walk into rooms and instantly have heads turn to look at them. When we hear the term “head-turner”, our minds most often go to models or people who are paid to look good. I won’t argue that a lot of the time “head-turners” are attractive people, but I would also argue that people with inner confidence turn heads. These are the people who walk into rooms with their shoulders back and heads high. These people know where they’re going and how to get there. The world and especially supervisors can see confidence. A while back I wrote a blog about confidence, I truly do believe that it is one of, if not the most important, quality to possess in today’s workforce.
The next time you you head into an interview or just have a regular day at the office, think about the way you talk, dress and carry yourself. The world will get to see you for the unique and phenomenal person that you are.
