THE OFFICE PROFESSIONAL: PROFESSIONAL IMAGE

In addition to a network of skills and knowledge, the office professional needs to project a professional image.  The adage, " To be successful, look successful," applies very particularly to the contemporary business environment.   

The following factors determine Professional Image

1. CLOTHING

    A clothing expert writes, "when you step into a room, even though no one in that room knows you or has seen you before, they will make ten decisions about you based solely on your appearance."  

     First impressions are largely visual. Clothes will not compensate for weak credentials or poor work habits but a person who is neat in appearance can open doors for better career possibilities.  When you begin working in the office, you will make a transition from student to office professional.  clothes sense is not inborn but it can be cultivated.  Observe fellow professionals and use good judgment.  A good wardrobe need not be expensive nor  extensive.  Build around a few items starting with basic outfits in neutral colors. Mix and match these item to create new combinations.  Add well-coordinated accessories to project appropriately and tastefully dressed picture.

click the link below to view SOME SAMPLE PICTURES OF OFFICE CLOTHES

For women:
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGaVcecBkjiLnB0rVpfnPEeFfccV0uA7T-nILR50fVOQbho3z_I-ozaiZeK2D0aVq_w1V-zmfAthM0RmhAegwpOB9MWYcRNAwIlLjq5Vd6-OsE_fUcQiSVzmfOAJXR8IxYvyq1xJIZ276H/s1600/dress+code+women+what+to+wear+in+the+office.jpg

http://img.floost.com/image.php?width=560&image=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.floost.com%2Fimages%2F1317544170.2393_work_wear_1_new2.jpg

http://www.thechicfashionista.com/images/lacetights-officeoutfits.jpg




For men:
https://www.selftrading.co.uk/files/images/men_suits.jpg

http://waltoncollege.uark.edu/career/Professional_Business_Dress_for_Men(2).jpg

http://www.in-color.net/images/uploads/basic_suits_thumb.jpg






2.  GROOMING

     A well-groomed appearance reflects an image of success and aura of self-confidence.  Grooming begins with personal hygiene and includes personal cleanliness, care of the hair, skin, hands, and make-up. A daily bath routine, use of deodorants and mouthwash is necessary.  Concern for the details of one's personal appearance can indicate carefulness about working related duties.


3. POSTURE AND POISE

    An expensive dress can look shabby on slouching or slumping figure.  Therefore, check your body alignment whether you are standing, sitting, or working. Smooth and graceful movements even communicate fine mental ability and good attitude.  Good posture is also important for health reasons.  Many painful back alignments and poor circulation are a direct result of poor posture.

     The dictionary defines poise as "balance and stability".  It is the ability to appear calm, confident, cool, relaxed, and composed even when inwardly you are struggling at some difficult situation or person.  It denotes ease and dignity of a manner.  A person who is poised overcomes tension and nervousness and exudes a peaceful spirit despite pressure.  He is not awkward or frantic.  Poise is valuable in many high-pressure jobs because your poise will make the people you work with calm and composed, too.

4.  SPEECH

     The quality of your voice has an impact on your personality.  Do you have a pleasant, clear,well- controlled, attractive voice? or is yours a low, dull, "squeaky' voice?  Is it loud, shrill, and demanding? Strive to correct your voice and speech defects that make communications difficult like stammering or string regional accents.   Refinement and good breeding is reflected on the kind of language you use. Foul or gutter language destroys your professional image.  Use a vocabulary that demonstrates wise and precise use of the language.  Slang expressions are not used in the office.

       

REFERENCE:

The Administrative Professionals in the Global Office, Lilia A. Alegre, Milagrina A. Gomez, Concepcion B. Mapa, & Zaida R. Lopez