What Your Office Says About Your Image

I know you have stepped into offices before and wondered how the heck they got anything done. A few years ago I visited a local college for some help they were offering small businesses. When I passed by the director's office, it looked like a bomb exploded. Immediately, I thought and he is going to help me build my business? Does he know what he's doing? How can he help me if he can't find his desk? It was so bad, he couldn't work at his desk and he had to set up in a conference room.

At another organization, I felt like I was walking into a gift store. There was so much cutesy stuff everywhere, I don't know where she put her work related items. I personally like a fun atmosphere, but I like it clean and simple with a touch of whimsy. It is no wonder it took this woman years to advance, she didn't look all that serious about her job and it was difficult to see past the toys to see everything she had to offer.

Here are some practical do's and don'ts to have at your desk. Can you think of more?

Get Polished and Ready for Opportunities

It's not magic and you certainly don't have to go over board. Having a polished professional image can help ensure that opportunities don't pass you by. Can you think of a time that your image may have held you back? Have you ever seen it happen to someone else?

Color & Image Consults Not Just For Women

Have you ever got up ready to rock your world and you go to the office or networking meeting and a few people ask you if you're feeling okay or you look tired? See why men should consider working with an image consultant and learn how it can benefit you.

Your Image Could Hamper Your Promotion

There are some things that are a real turn off when if comes to basic image and grooming. It can repel clients and promotions. Check out this article and see how bad breath, too much perfume, and more can stop your career in its tracks. What are the things that may cause you to step back or step away?

Image Problems That Are Easily Overlooked

When we think of our image, we immediately think of how we look. Take a look at this article that outlines five image problems that you might want to think about to improve your image. I especially liked the examples of Tech Etiquette. Email, voicemail, cell phones and FaceBook could all use an image makeover, its one area we may not think of in how were are being perceived professionally. I better go check mine now!

Dressing Blunders for Women in the Workplace

Here in Florida, there are some seasonal rules that we are exempt from, but just because we are a vacation destination really doesn't give us a free pass to throw out common sense when it comes to dressing in the workplace. I worked for a CPA who would just get disgusted if he saw an armpit in the office. He just thought that was unprofessional. Of course we thought female bankers coming in and wearing short tight skirts with an abundance of cleavage was unprofessional. It didn't matter if she was good at her job or not none of us (including our boss) could take her seriously because she dressed as though her skills were not enough to earn our business. Check out this article and see if you or someone you know stretches the rules in the work place.

Enhance Your Professional Image

This article speaks directly to individuals working in sales, however these suggestions would be good for anyone to consider when wanting to improve their personal image. Creating a sense of confidence is a good place to start. In my experience, showing people the colors that make them shine provides confidence instantly. It is a wonderful building block to give them the tools they need to feel their best every day.

Get creative with your business card

Here are some ideas to get creative with your business card. Think outside the box and begin to brand you. Your business card is the impression you leave with people you meet. Take the first step and check out this video for inspiration! What are some business cards you've seen, did any have that wow factor? What was it? The graphic, paper, color? Oh do tell!