How to look professional, no matter where you work
Every industry is different. Every office you visit will be filled with different people who each have their own unique style. The one thing they have in common, though, is that you have to appear professional. Yes, even if there is no dress code. If you’ve been in the workplace before, you probably already know this. However, if you’re starting a new job for the first time or if you’ve been working in a very casual environment, you may be wondering how to look professional without overdoing it. Here are some simple tips to help you out.
First things first, organise your outfits
When you went for your interview, what was the interviewer wearing? Your first interview was most likely with the person who will be your immediate supervisor. This means you should take your cue from their choice of outfit since you’ll be working directly with them. Were they dressed in a formal suit or dress? Or were they going for a semi-formal look with jeans and a fancy top or button-up shirt paired with heels or formal shoes? If you had a chance to look around the office, what were your new colleagues wearing?
If you didn’t have a moment to take it all in and you were too nervous to notice the details, check out their website and any sort of social media the company may have. Do they seem creative and laid back? Or do they convey a more formal tone?
Then think about the specifics of your day-to-day responsibilities. Will you be dealing with clients in person? Or will you mainly be working behind a desk in one of the departments? Are you aware of whether or not clients visit the premises or not? If you’re going to be meeting clients – even simply in passing while walking through the building – you need to make sure you’re dressed appropriately.
However, it’s important to remember that you are allowed to have your own unique style and taste as long as it fits in with the formality of the office. Don’t go out and buy a whole new wardrobe if you don’t have to. For your first day, it’s best to wear something that can either be dressed up or down. Baggy jeans and a T-shirt is most likely not a good idea. Wear clothing that is neat and an outfit that is well-thought out.
If you’re one of those people who is likely to spill coffee on themselves, make an effort to have a spare top, jacket or scarf in your car or a bag. This is especially important if you’re going to be seeing clients.
It’s a good idea to have clothes set aside specifically for work. This way, you won’t ruin them when you’re out running errands or meeting with friends on the weekend. Ensure these clothes are always clean, hung up properly and taken care of. It’ll also help you decide what to wear each day as you have an idea of what is available and will look good.
Hygiene, hair and your general appearance
If you’re a woman, you shouldn’t feel pressured to wear makeup every day if you don’t want to. Simply ensure that your face is clean and any blemishes are taken care of. Of course, many women do prefer to wear makeup to work as it makes them feel good about themselves and more confident. If that is the case, avoid makeup that is too heavy or too bold. If you’re going to wear red lipstick, avoid using eye makeup that’s too striking and if you’re going to wear striking eye makeup, use a more neutral shade on your lips.
Whether you are male or female, your hair is as important as your outfit. Unless you wake up with naturally neat hair, you should make an effort with your hair before you leave the house. It’s best to figure out a hairstyle that works for you and stick to it. Of course, the most important things is that your hair is always clean. Use proper hair care products that include ingredients known to thoroughly clean your hair like, for example, sodium lauryl sulphate. If you suffer from dandruff, it’s important that you make sure to use a product that offers the right treatment. Gill Anti-Dandruff 2-in-1 conditioning shampoo will ensure that your dandruff is kept under control.
When it comes to general hygiene, you probably know what you need to do. During summer when the nights are hot, it may be best to shower or bath in the morning. When the nights are colder, showering or bathing at night is alright as you won’t perspire while you sleep. Of course, it all depends on you and what suits your routine. As long as you know you smell good and look neat, fresh and clean, you’re good to go.
