What shadow do you cast?
What memory do you leave in the room after you have left?
First impressions are so important and it does not matter who you are, we are all being assessed. The first few minutes are not enough time to get to know your personality so what else can set you up for success. The brand of Me is your personal and professional identity, it is a way of presenting yourself to the world telling people what you stand for even without actually saying it.
If most of the first impression is based on the way we look, are you portraying what you want people to see and does it leave a lasting memory. A look carefully curated can portray a great deal of you, and if you are consistent will be a powerful tool of you are.
Examples of personal branding are Steve Jobz and the black polo neck and the manicured beard. The look did not get in the way of the product he was presenting it was reassuring and powerful at the same time.
Karl Lagfeld the haute couture designer, had a signature style of a black suit and tie with sunglasses, he never got in the way of his designs but he created a lasting memory of who he was. Both examples are quite extreme but how can we learn from them and still very much be are true selves.
You need to be confident in what you wear and come across as polished and professional, this does not have to be high fashion but a look that you are comfortable with. It might only be when you are in your professional mode, as often clothes can give us the confidence of stepping into a role.
One of my coaching clients recently is doing some press releases and is wearing a collared shirt, the move makes him feel business like. I often say to clients we would not garden without wellies so think about the outfit you wear as an extension of you and does it say what you want it to say.
nuggets is all about colourful learning and making a difference, I always deliver a workshop in a colourful outfit, normally one block of colour (never black).
Think about the shadow you cast and what memory you want to leave in the room after you have gone. I am more than happy for the memory of me to be "She delivered a workshop had a bright coloured outfit and pink lipstick" I would hope they would add "Fabulous workshop very insightful!!"
Please do get in touch for a workshop on Personal Branding or a one to one coaching session bev@nuggetsoflearning.co.uk
