Big Money, Big Jobs - Featured in Echo magazine weekly

Thursday, April 24th 2008

By Tamara Holmes

IMAGE EQUALS POWER

Image. A bad one will ruin careers, no matter the brains and brawn to back it up. Truth be told that, if you don’t look the part, being taken seriously will soon be a memory.
And it all starts from day one, the job interview. “The number one thing is polish and hygiene,” notes Christie Ressel, director of Personal Power Image Consulting (website found at PersonalPowerImage.com) on the top tip for presenting a well– rounded, presentable vision seated across from a potential employer. “There was a study done at UCLA which found that credibility is based on three factors; vocal, verbal and visual. Visual accounts for 55 per cent of the credibility pie, and 90 percent of that is comprised of our clothing and grooming. That’s astounding!
“The great thing is that (visual images are) also the easiest to alter and manage. You want to help whomever is hiring to see you in that position.” Ressel, noting that not everyone remembers that scrubbing behind the ears is crucial for a high–quality first impression. “Ensure that you’ve showered, your nails have been taken care of — yes, men — and your hair is neatly brushed.” Going as far as having the shirt tucked, shoes shined and garments neatly pressed won’t go wrong, teaches Ressel. Her image consulting firm goes the distance, directing clients to put forth their personal best in both professional and personal scenarios, job hunting included. While these details may be sometimes lost on 20– to 30–somethings, Ressel insists that barging in for an interviewing while appearing disheveled is a waste of everyone’s time.
“90 per cent of clothing found in stores don’t fit people off the rack,” Ressel marvels. Her golden nugget of advice remains to buy the best quality of clothing you can afford that is appropriate to your job market, and to make sure the fit is immaculate.
“What most people don’t know is that the suggested annual clothing investment for all clothing items is five to 10 per cent of their gross annual income,” continues Ressel, noting that one’s wardrobe should be viewed as an investment for personal and professional growth and accomplishment. “Having said that, (shopping on a budget) means shopping around in different stores, and not buying the first thing you see.”
Most people have a secret weapon tucked in the depths of their closet, or at least they think they do. Informal yWork surveys revealed that eight out of nine had the elusive “interview outfit” on stand–by, but — when prompted — six of the eight discovered that the ensembles were dated, inappropriate for their current job industry or no longer fit. “Having an interview can be stressful enough,” eases Ressel. “Having to try and rummage around your closet for something to wear can add additional stress if you’re not prepared. It’s really important to have a professional outfit ready before you go hitting the pavement.”
The ‘look’ isn’t the only ace card a job seeker should tuck sleeve–side. “Although some may find it redundant, it’s really useful to practice your answers to various questions that may be asked,” adds Ressel on other ways to wow HR. “You want to come across with certainty and confidence. Practice making eye contact, as maintaining a soft gaze shows confidence. Also practice body language; arms or legs crossed suggests you are guarded. Be engaging, warm, open and smile.”

Send resume. Check. Nail interview. Check. Start job. Er…

The hardest part could indeed just be starting. After all, Ressel warns, don’t think image woes end at the interview. “If you not only want to keep your job, but be considered for a higher position, all of these tips should be maintained long after the interview. If you want to move up in the company, dress the part. Help your employer see you in that future position. “When you look well presented and confident people are attracted to you, it means you’re dressing your truth,” continues Ressel on whether image after starting a job translates into future successes while climbing the corporate ladder. “Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, ‘Who you are speaks so loudly, I can’t hear what you say.’ What you wear most often is who you become, so dress the part! When we dress for what we want, (it’s natural to feel) excited at our potential and, as a result, experience opportunities that will increase our capabilities.”

 

 

*Toronto based image consulting