By Simone C. Styger, freelance expert for style
People who give seminars, run workshops and give talks invest a lot of money in marketing, lean administration and their own training and development. However, "soft factors" such as charisma and likeability are just as important as know-how and experience. For this reason, professional appearance is of crucial importance.
A business outfit does not have to be particularly trendy or original. It should suit the function and the occasion and never take center stage. In addition, clothing, shoes and accessories must be well-groomed, fit well in terms of cut and size and convey seriousness and competence to the interviewer. Or would you trust an investment advisor with your money without hesitation if he greeted you in a Hawaiian shirt? Hardly. You would probably have the feeling that he would soon be off to a distant island with your money.
A professional appearance is not just about a person's outer appearance. Just as important is the ability to respond to a conversation partner and recognize non-verbal signs. Anyone who also knows the rules of etiquette and applies them appropriately to the situation has already cracked the secret of the perfect appearance.
The cut, color and material of your clothes must match your personality and physique. This means: no sleeves, pants or ties that are too long or too short, no shoulders that are too broad and no materials that are too heavy. The most important thing, however, is that you feel comfortable. If you feel cramped, you will certainly not achieve a harmonious appearance.
The cut of your clothes should emphasize your figure. Very tight pieces only look good on very young and very slim people. Or in fashion magazines. Choose garments that only gently hint at your body shape and do not emphasize the tightness.
Although synthetic fibers are currently conquering the fashion market, you should prefer natural fibers such as cotton, wool, silk and linen wherever possible. These fabrics allow your skin to breathe and make you feel more comfortable.
Don't distract from your personality with too many colors or too many patterns. You will only make it unnecessarily difficult for the other person to concentrate on your words: Colorful dresses speak for themselves. But not for you.
Shoes say a lot about the wearer. Unkempt shoes can ruin a carefully chosen outfit, while elegant shoes can enhance a simple outfit. Everyday business wear includes dark and closed shoes that are never worn without socks or stockings.
Very often you can tell by the little things whether someone really has style and attaches importance to details. Matching glasses, discreet jewelry, a valuable briefcase or a neatly kept agenda reveal care and taste.
People who give seminars, run workshops and give talks invest a lot of money in marketing, lean administration and their own training and development. However, "soft factors" such as charisma and likeability are just as important as know-how and experience. For this reason, professional appearance is of crucial importance.
A business outfit does not have to be particularly trendy or original. It should suit the function and the occasion and never take center stage. In addition, clothing, shoes and accessories must be well-groomed, fit well in terms of cut and size and convey seriousness and competence to the interviewer. Or would you trust an investment advisor with your money without hesitation if he greeted you in a Hawaiian shirt? Hardly. You would probably have the feeling that he would soon be off to a distant island with your money.
A professional appearance is not just about a person's outer appearance. Just as important is the ability to respond to a conversation partner and recognize non-verbal signs. Anyone who also knows the rules of etiquette and applies them appropriately to the situation has already cracked the secret of the perfect appearance.
The six key styling tips
1. adapt your clothing to your personality
The cut, color and material of your clothes must match your personality and physique. This means: no sleeves, pants or ties that are too long or too short, no shoulders that are too broad and no materials that are too heavy. The most important thing, however, is that you feel comfortable. If you feel cramped, you will certainly not achieve a harmonious appearance.
2. only gently hint at body shapes
The cut of your clothes should emphasize your figure. Very tight pieces only look good on very young and very slim people. Or in fashion magazines. Choose garments that only gently hint at your body shape and do not emphasize the tightness.
3. rely on nature
Although synthetic fibers are currently conquering the fashion market, you should prefer natural fibers such as cotton, wool, silk and linen wherever possible. These fabrics allow your skin to breathe and make you feel more comfortable.
4. do not use more than 3 colors.
Don't distract from your personality with too many colors or too many patterns. You will only make it unnecessarily difficult for the other person to concentrate on your words: Colorful dresses speak for themselves. But not for you.
5. pay attention to the quality of the shoes.
Shoes say a lot about the wearer. Unkempt shoes can ruin a carefully chosen outfit, while elegant shoes can enhance a simple outfit. Everyday business wear includes dark and closed shoes that are never worn without socks or stockings.
6. attach importance to accessories.
Very often you can tell by the little things whether someone really has style and attaches importance to details. Matching glasses, discreet jewelry, a valuable briefcase or a neatly kept agenda reveal care and taste.
