Here’s your visual communication skills training for the day brought to you by on-site communication trainer and motivational keynote speaker Dan O’Connor:
Wouldn’t it be nice if we lived in a world where we were judged–and promoted–solely on our professional ability?
Well, we don’t, and “Professional Communication Skills” does not refer only to words.
Everything you say and do communicates some message about who you are and how you think. That said, some of us care very much about our jobs and professional reputation, and are simply unaware when we are sending the wrong visual message. If you’re truly concerned with your professional development, never underestimate the power of image. This doesn’t mean that you have to conform to the norm; it does, however, mean that you have to pay attention to–and take pride in–your professional image if you expect to get ahead. Some people are very vocal about not caring about what they look like at work, because it’s just work, and it should be their skills that matter. These are generally the same people who complain because they are passed over for promotions, fired, or otherwise struggling in their career. The truth is–like it or not–image can make or break you.
Below you’ll find the top 10 professional image-destroyers. If you find that you have committed any of the following offenses, it’s time to take a professional image training course. Sooner rather than later.
TOP 10 PROFESSIONAL IMAGE RUINERS:
1: Flip-flops–under no circumstances–ever–not even at a company picnic. Yes, this includes things such as Birkenstocks. Crocs are still up for debate…but to be safe–No!
2: Just putting your hair up in a scrunchie/pulling it back–If you don’t have time for personal grooming, what else are you slacking on? Yes, people wonder.
3: T-shirts or tank-tops–These are only to be worn under your professional clothes. This is why your grandmother called them undershirts.
4: Long/bejeweled/multi-colored fingernails–(Unless you want to be seen as frivolous) Professional fingernails are kept short and classic–preferably rounded rather than squared. One color. Yes, even on holidays.
5: Jeans–Although they might be allowed, make it a point never to wear them to work and you’ll stand out from those who do–as someone who takes pride in his/her appearance.
6: Sundresses–Anything that looks casual makes you look casual. Do you want to be seen as though you take your career casually? Sundresses belong on the beach or at a garden party–not in the office.
7: Sweatshirts/sweat pants–Especially with your college/high school logo printed on it. This makes you look as though you still belong in school.
8: Flesh–Although it has become popular with parentless teenagers to show their belly buttons, midriffs, lower back, and more, if you show even a glimpse of skin between your chest and your knees, don’t be surprised if you’re fired or sent home–or if someone tries to “tip” you. These would all be appropriate reactions.
9: Sports jerseys–No one cares whom you root for, and if you’re sending an image other than one that contributes to the productivity in your workplace, you’re sending the wrong image. The Colts aren’t rooting for you.
10: Cheap jewelry–Your jewelry should at least look likeprecious gems or metals, or attractive costume jewelry. Anything woven, rubber, plastic, or something a child could make is strictly forbidden. Men–a ring or two is all you get; an expensive watch is the way to go. Finally, no face piercings or ankle bracelets–this isn’t 1985.
If you–or anyone you care about–has committed any of the above offenses, please share this article with them and help make the workplace a more professional–and beautiful–place.
Could your organization use professional communication skills training? Are you looking for a motivational keynote speaker? Check out our course and keynote catalog to see our most popular courses, or contact us to see how easy it is to get a custom workshop brought to you within your budget.
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Tags: communication in the workplace, communication trainer, communication training, communications trainer, effective communication, effective communication skills, effective communication skills training, On-Site Communication Training, On-Site Training, onsite communicaiton training, Onsite Communication Training, Onsite Training, Physical Communication and Body Language, professional image, workplace dress code