There are those who believe that worrying about the way you look, or what to wear, is superficial. They would have us to believe that it’s not what’s on the outside, but what’s on the inside that counts. To a certain degree that is definitely true. We must always cultivate what is on the inside as we seek to become the wonderful women that we were made to be. Taking care of ourselves mentally, physically and emotionally is a must if we are to be successful in the world today. There is, however, something to be said for having our outside match the inside.
As I embark upon the journey of growing Image Anu, I am encouraged by the fact that it is no longer considered “shallow” to focus on your look or how you present yourself. Thank goodness for shows such as “What not to Wear” and “How do I look?”, that show women (and men) that the way you present yourself can have a direct impact on your success. In most cases the guests will comment on how the makeover has impacted them both internally and externally. I am a firm believer that…the better you look, the better you feel.
I look forward to hearing from you as we share through this blog. Please feel free to share your thoughts and experiences related to how your image has impacted your personal and professional development. Are there issues that you would like to see discussed related to personal image and dress? Do you have a funny story or fashion mishap that you would like to share? Please feel free to send them to me by posting to this blog, or via email at imageanu@gmail.com.
To get this party started send me your thoughts regarding the definition of “business casual” and its impact on professionalism in the workplace. Have organizations become too relaxed in their dress code policies? If so, how do you suggest we get back on course? I look forward to hearing your thoughts.
Until then….
Toni Cunningham, Owner & Proprietor
Image Anu, LLC
October 6, 2009 at 1:10 am
Toni,
It seems like there are more issues with business casual now then in the past. Perhaps because individuals had been used to traditional business attire, so it was only natural that their business casual dress was only a step down. Now, we have many that have never had to wear a suit and so they seem to look at business casual as just a step up from jeans. It is definitely hurting their advancement opportunities as they are not viewed as leaders that can inspire confidence.
October 7, 2009 at 1:57 pm
Tiffany,
Your observation makes so much sense! It is similar to the challenge that I have trying to explain “professional dress” to our young people. Most often, when I am asked to speak at a school or to a youth group, it is for Career Day and the students have been asked to dress professionally for the day. Most of us would be appalled at what we see! What the young people view as professional dress is usually at one of two extremes: Ladies – look like they are going to the club; Men – pressed [sagging] jeans, oversized t-shirt, and clean color-coordinated sneakers to match.
In times past, we used to be able to say “wear what you would wear to Church on Sunday, however these children have come up at a time when Sunday clothes look like Tuesday clothes. Not to mention, they may come from households where no one in the family has to get up each morning and put on a suit or dress for work.
All of these factors translate over to the workplace when these bright, talented, highly intelligent young people enter the workforce. This is why many organizations have started to try and address this issue through workshops and career coaching.
I am excited about the opportunities that exist to help our young people (and some older folks too) improve their lives by improving their image!
Thanks for your post!
Toni
October 5, 2009 at 2:48 pm
Toni,
You are so right – I look forward to your tips and suggestions. I work from home and have meetings at a client’s office, or more often at places like Starbucks, Panera etc. I’d love to see some suggestions and wardrobe tips that will allow me to be casual/comfortable when at home, but look business appropriate when I have meetings.
My old corporate suits don’t seem quite right anymore but my casual at home clothes don’t feel right either.
Looking forward to your posts!
October 5, 2009 at 5:19 pm
Phyllis,
I look forward to sharing my thoughts on this subject. I know that there are many fabulous women business owners, such as yourself, who are trying to strike that same balance. I will be sure to tackle that issue in future posts.
Thanks!
Toni