What message are you sending?

Personal Branding - Appearance

Normally when we think about branding, we think about symbols, logos or signs that define companies or products, such as McDonald’s, Apple, or Coca-Cola. A brand isn’t a concept that we’re used to thinking about on a personal level. Your personal brand is your promise to your family, your friends, your employer, your coworkers, and your subordinates. It includes everything from your appearance, to your smile, your handshake, and how you conduct yourself. We quite often send the wrong message because we don’t think about these things or how they might impact the way others see us. Your Personal Brand differentiates you from others and lets people know what they can expect from you. It should reflect your true best self and how you would like others to see you. It’s part of developing yourself as a leader, and those people who take it seriously help themselves stand out in a positive way. Your personal “brand” should answer questions like:

• Who are you?
• What do you stand for?
• What are your values?
• What’s your vision for yourself?
• How do you make yourself memorable?

Appearance

First impressions are lasting ones, and you want your first one to send the message that you’re a leader. Your appearance should convey an impression of success. Research has shown that when a person likes one aspect of a thing (whether it’s something about you, an organization, company, or anything else) they’ll tend to think positively about all aspects of that thing. It’s called the “Halo Effect.” Conversely, if they dislike an aspect of something, they’ll tend to think negatively about the whole thing. Utilize the “halo effect” to your advantage by making a great first impression and setting yourself up for success. The way you groom and present yourself to the world sends a message. Some people focus on that message only when they’re looking for a job, but true leaders think about their professional appearance at all times—even after they have the job and when they’re the ones doing the hiring. Your appearance is always important.

Clothing. Choose your clothing based on your position and where you are in your career. Obviously, someone working a trade in the field will dress differently than someone who works in an office, as an outside salesperson, or as the owner of a business. Make sure your clothes are always clean, pressed and in good repair, even if you’re wearing a uniform. Things like this matter. Make sure you dress for respect. Sometimes what’s appropriate for the job may cost more than your budget allows. If this is the case, look for sales or go to thrift shops. Don’t let your budget stop you from dressing suitably for your job.

You should always dress at the top of the range for your position. If you work a trade in the field, wear jeans and polo shirts instead of shorts and t-shirts or jeans with holes in them; jeans should NEVER fall below your hips and shirts should always be tasteful. If you work in an office environment, it will be wise to select dressier clothing—you’ll take your cue based on the dress code of the company. If you’re the owner, make sure you determine what image you want to project. Establish a dress code for the company and then be sure you dress in the way that represents that image and sets the example. This applies equally to men and women.

Body Art. Although tattoos and body piercings have become quite common, you should consider your long-term goals if you’re thinking about getting body art. Tattoos are permanent and their location and style can affect how you’re seen on the job or as a leader. If your goal is to be the CEO of a large contracting firm someday, remember that some people may be conservative and visible tattoos might create a negative impression. If you already have one or more, you should do your best to cover them up and you’ll find it easier to avoid or overcome negative stereotyping. In short, it’s wise for you to consider your career and leadership goals before choosing to invest in tattoos or body piercings.

Hygiene. As important as clothing is to the impression you make, so is your personal hygiene. It seems obvious, but it’s worth mentioning how important cleanliness is. People notice the condition of your teeth whenever you smile, they notice if you appear not to have bathed, and for sure they notice if your use of cologne, perfume, or aftershave is excessive. There are many people who are allergic to strong scents and will be uncomfortable in your presence—“less is more.” Pay attention to the length of your hair and your general grooming. People who take the time to look professional usually make a better impression than those who don’t.

The above content is extracted from Mike Holt's Leadership Skills textbook.

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Mike Holt is an author, businessman, educator, speaker, publisher and National Electrical Code? expert. He has written hundreds of electrical training books and articles, founded three successful businesses, and has taught thousands of electrical code seminars across the US and internationally. His company, Mike Holt Enterprises, has been serving the electrical industry for over 40 years, creating and publishing books, DVDs, online training and curriculum support for electrical trainers, students, organizations, and electrical professionals. 

Mike has devoted his career to studying and understanding the National Electrical Code and finding the easiest, most direct way to share that knowledge with others. He has taught over 1,000 classes on over 40 different electrical-related subjects to tens of thousands of students. His knowledge of the subject matter, coupled with his dynamic and animated teaching style, has made him sought after from companies like Generac, IAEI, IBEW, ICBO, NECA, and Fortune 500 companies such as IBM, Boeing, Motorola, and AT&T. He is a contributing Editor for Electrical Construction and Maintenance Magazine (EC&M) and formerly Construction Editor to Electrical Design and Installation Magazine (EDI). His articles have been seen in CEE News, Electrical Contractor (EC) International Association of Electrical Inspectors (IAEI News), The Electrical Distributor (TED) and Power Quality Magazine (PQ).