As a homebased business owner, you may not have to "Dress for Success" every day. Working at your computer, you are able to still earn an income with your robe on--if you want to. But, there are times that you have to meet clients, or simply get out and prospect. It's at that moment, you wonder "what on earth do I wear?." Don't let the idea of "image" scare you. Here's a quick head to toe to help you cover all the bases where your image is concerned:
Hair - whether long or short, get a good haircut. Minimize hair accessories, although there are great clips available that work fine in long hair.
Skin and makeup - regular maintenance program (whatever brand you choose) will keep your skin looking healthy. There are many companies that offer free consultations. You can bypass the makeup counter and have a private lesson in your home or that of the consultant. I even offer a facial in the mail, where you tell me your skin type and I send samples for you to try. Put your best face forward by using makeup colors that are natural while adding the polish that pulls your image together. I'll be glad to make suggestions if you'd like (email personally). Unconsciously, women that are well groomed send a message of competence to clients and potential clients.
Clothing - when going out to market your biz, I would suggest that you ask yourself if your clothing says that you're in business. With the popularity of "business casual" you could get ONE or TWO (not a whole closet full!!) outfits that look great and make you feel confident wearing them. The best colors to mix and match are neutrals (khaki, beiges, browns, black, navy). Shoes should be neat and polished, style may vary based on what you're wearing. You should carry a tote or business brief (there are nice looking ones that double as handbags) to avoid carry a lot of "stuff." Taking a moment to dress in a manner that makes you feel confident will allow you to be confortable being "seen." You'll even be more likely to get out of yourself and use your outing and errand time to network. How many of us ducked into another aisle at the market to avoid running into someone that you do business with because you felt unpresentable? Your banker, dry cleaner, post office clerk, florist, etc. should all know you're in business. Whether they are potential clients or not, they will remember and refer others to you when the need arises. It's your image and confidence that will get you remembered.
*Note: If you're dressed in a manner similar to your client's employees--you'll portray an image that "fits in." The key is to keep it simple, and identify the outfits that are especially for your meetings/outings that you know look great and make you feel like a million dollars. Your image will help send the message that you're a professional business woman. Image will not keep the customers coming back though, if you aren't delivering quality services or products. You deserve to give at least as much attention to your personal image as you would to the marketing materials you use to promote your business. Customers buy you as part of the package!
Daphne Johnson is an Independent Beauty Consultant and Human Resources Director. She has two children and they live in Wisconsin. As a former model and retail manager, Daphne has had many years of image training. If you have specific questions about your image or would like a facial/makeover in the mail you may contact Daphne Johnson by email at daphne@asapnet.net Visit her website at http://www/mkinet.com14/djohnson4.html
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