She said that in her workplace she was expected to dress like a leader, and follow a basic dress code. But in her specific job description she was also expected to look more edgy while still meeting the corporate dress code requirements.

I asked her what she meant by “edgy”. She said she wanted to stand out, but still look appropriate.

Here are 4 ways you can stand out at work within the confines of proper attire:

Fit Means ‘It Fits’

It doesn’t matter how expensive or appropriate the garment is for the occasion – if it doesn’t fit, it will look sloppy, frumpy, clingy or tight; cheap, even. Getting minor alterations done for a better fit, such as shortening or lengthening sleeves and the hemlines of pants and skirts, or taking in or out side seams will make the garment look more expensive and help you stand out.

Add Layers

Not only will wearing a jacket layered over a shirt, top or blouse help you stand out as a leader, the extra layer along with the added change in colour or texture will also add interest to your wardrobe and may make it easier to coordinate multiple clothing colours. When layering for work, layer without bulking up by choosing lighter to medium weight fabrics that drape.

Accessorize with Distinction

Accessories can take work-wear basics to work-wear fabulous. Unless you are working in a very traditional or conservative office environment, accessorize your work wardrobe with distinct clothing details such as contrasting trim, unique buttons, structured shoulders or an unusual collar. Additional accessories such as statement jewelry, uniquely patterned scarves or a distinct computer bag act in the same way. Grooming, such as makeup for women, stylish hair and well-groomed nails accessorize and finish the look.

Splash on the Colour

Adding a splash of colour in form of an accessory such as a scarf or a garment with printed fabric will instantly add interest to a neutral work wardrobe, and when strategically placed can work as a focal point as well as an accessory.

Using these tips can help you stand out and look outstanding. However, when dressing for work, even in the most casual environment, ‘dress for your purpose, not for distraction’. When adding distinct or unconventional details in the form of layers, accessories and colour, avoid extremes and keep it simple. This will keep you looking edgy and appropriate – not cluttered.

The post How to Look Edgy and Appropriate at Work appeared first on BC Jobs Blog.

Everything has its time, place and purpose.  Clothing that says, “sloppy, fun, sexy or fitness” should be saved for those kinds of activities, and generally have no place in the workplace.

It may be comfy, but if you look like you don’t care, it will likely be translated by others into: “You don’t care”. Even though your company may have a ‘Business Casual’ culture, your business casual dress code should never be interpreted as, ‘sloppy is okay’. For most companies, the casual work days of untucked, uncoordinated, unfitted and unruly dress have come to an end. Today even the most casual work environments are raising their expectations for this category of dress. Business clothing should be neat, clean and coordinated. It should fit your body and always be in good repair.

Clothes that say “fun” are fun. They set the tone for frolicking alone or with others. However, at work they may send the message that you are there to goof off. Most employers and clients would agree, this is not the message that will enhance your professional credibility or the credibility of the company. Employers and clients want to know that you are credible, capable, professional, and are there to do the job to the best of your ability. Don’t let them be fooled by the way you are dressed.

Would you wear a micro mini-skirt to hike in the woods or go downhill skiing? Although mini-skirts can be fashion forward, fun and great for some activities, they may not be comfortable or appropriate for others. Work is one of those activities. Although it may seem innocent to you, revealing clothing or sexy styles such as see-through fabrics, short hem-lines, low neck-lines and visible underwear can be distracting to those around you and send the wrong message.

Although most people would agree that maintaining a healthy lifestyle is important, dressing like you belong in a gym, while at work, is a little too casual. Save the sneakers, yoga gear, track suits, leggings, casual T-shirts and shorts for fitness activities. Active wear is called ‘active wear’ for a reason.

When getting dressed in the morning, consider the time, place and purpose most suited to your clothing, and then dress accordingly for your day’s activities. If the activity is work, ‘dress for success’ and avoid anything that might be distracting.

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Wearing appropriate business attire can go a long way in getting the job, getting the client, or moving up the corporate ladder. However, knowing what an appropriate work wardrobe is can be confusing, as it can vary depending on the industry, the company culture and your job. Before deciding what to wear to work, consider the following:

Look at the industry

Some industries are considered more traditional or conservative, while others are more progressive or contemporary. There may be a traditional business dress code for your industry.

What is your company brand?

The industry may be the same, but the company and product culture may be different. Even though your industry may have its standards for professional dress, your company may have an attitude of its own that sets it apart as a brand differentiating itself from the pack. What is your company culture? Is it formal, laid back, fashion-forward or fun?

Who will see you and how will they be dressed?

As a representative of your company, consider how you want your clients, co-workers and employer to react to you. Do you want to come across as Authoritative, Creative, Formal, Functional, Credible, etc.? The way you are dressed will have a direct impact on the way you are perceived, and how others respond to you and your company. (https://www.capitalfoodservices.com/)

Maintain a Consistent Image

Some of us wear many hats: in any given day you may be at sales calls, a business mixer or a construction site; and you may feel you need to dress differently for various business-related activities. This can be challenging when getting dressed in the morning, and hard on the wardrobe. Although it is important to dress appropriately for where you will be and what you will be doing, it is still important to maintain a certain level of consistency. If one day you are wearing a matched suit and the next day jeans and a casual top, this can send mixed messages and confuse your client or your employer.

Suppose that someone is meeting you for the first time. What would a potential client or employer think when they first meet you? Do you fit their expectations for the industry, products and skills you are offering? Plan your work wardrobe with careful consideration. The image that you project is vital to establishing a business relationship quickly, and maintaining that relationship over time.

The post 4 Things to Consider When Dressing for Work appeared first on BC Jobs Blog.

When people think of the word ‘Bushido’ they think Japanese warriors –

strong, tough, regimented, unforgiving and loyal. However, the word ‘Bushido’ is known to incorporate the following traits: honesty, justice, heroic courage, compassion, sincerity, honour, duty, loyalty and courtesy. Maintaining the credibility of this code of conduct was most important to the Japanese samurai.

In the modern business world we may not be at war in the traditional sense. However, we can use some of the attributes of ‘Bushido’ to become more effective and successful in the business.

Doing business the ‘Bushido’ way, means doing business with integrity. It is establishing and maintaining a credible image.  And the way to get there is by being armed with the right attitude, skills and tools that will attract and keep clients.

In Bushido Business, the Fine Art of the Modern Professional, Insight Publishing Company 2010, I describe the three aspects of personal image: how we look; our actions; and our words. Each of these components play a role in how we are perceived initially, and each have an impact on the long-term credibility of our business image.

The first thing we notice about a person we meet is their appearance. This consists of their clothing, accessories and grooming. (subta.com) To look credible in business we need to reflect the industry, the company culture, and also the job description.

If your appearance reflects appropriately, you will look like you have what it takes, you are more likely to be taken seriously, you will look credible and your image will be on the track to success. However, this is just the first step.

According to Brian Tracy, Bushido Business co-author, our actions determine our perceived attitude. He says, “If you are completely prepared through practice, have developed skills and expertise in your field and arrive alert, with high energy and a good attitude you will dramatically increase the speed in which you hit your bull’s-eye.”

Co-author Stephen M.R Covey, describes the quickest way to building trust and rapport with anybody is, to keep commitments that you make. Far too often people make commitments that are not followed through. By keeping the commitments, others will know they can depend on you to come through and get the job done.

The third component of image is ‘our words’. If you are not reinforcing your message with your words, you could be destroying your credibility. However, sometimes we say too much and don’t listen enough. One suggestion, co-author Tom Hopkins says, in his chapter is, “Be willing to listen. Ask questions, and give up control of the conversation.”

Business people today can’t afford to waste time. Through these ancient concepts, the authors of Bushido Business have provided the tools and weapons that make this book the obvious choice, if you want a competitive advantage. In this book, you will find that the “way of the warrior” is a mindset you must have to survive in today’s economy. Learn about Bushido Business at http://www.personalimpact.ca/store/books/bushido-business/

Kimberly Law, AICI CIP is a Certified Image & Etiquette Advisor and principal of Personal Impact International founded in 1999. She is an author and speaker and works with companies, men and women – helping them refine their look from head to toe and enhance professional communication, increasing confidence and personal effectiveness to help her clients look and act their very best, always! Do you have Personal Impact? Find out with our FREE Self-assessments. Contact Kimberly at info@personalimact.ca.

The post Bushido Business appeared first on BC Jobs Blog.

As our age creeps up and gravity takes it’s toll, the fashions that we once lived in may not be as comfortable or as forgiving as they once were. As our bodies continue to change some of us continue to squeeze into the same clothes, while others start believing that those faux pas fashions we swore we would never wear, really aren’t a stereotype of aging we thought they were in our 20’s. Fortunately there are some easy ways to look younger without going overboard.

Dress age appropriately – While your legs and stomach may still look great, flaunting them in mini-skirts and open midriffs will draw attention to your age. Although stylish dressing is one sure way of looking younger, dressing like a teenager will have the opposite effect.  Draw attention to your best features with chic instead of flaunt

Dress Your Size – Clothing that is too big will make you look frumpy, while clothing that is too small will show any extra pounds you may be trying to hide. Buy items to fit the largest part of your body then have them altered to fit the smaller areas.

Coordinate Your Footwear – Open toed shoes and sandals are worn bare foot or with sandal-foot hosiery, not with socks. As the day wears on, so does the size of your feet.  To find your best fit, style and desired level of comfort, shop for shoes in the afternoon or the evening.

Avoid Extremes – Delicate and whimsical accessories appear sweet and girlish, while extremely large pieces can over-whelm. Choose accessories in modern styles scaled to your body size. When in doubt about size, safely choose medium.

Too many accessories look cluttered. Unmatched metals are uncoordinated and distracting. Matching sets date you and them. Accessories look best when coordinated but not matching. Strategically place accessories to draw attention away from challenging areas by focusing attention to one area such as the face with earrings, a necklace or scarf. Avoid accessorizing in areas where you don’t want the eye drawn to.

Out with elastic, in with the Lycra – Although elastic and pleats may be made for comfort they may not be the most flattering or fashionable. If comfy is the key, opt for smooth designs in quality fabrics with a touch of Lycra.

It’s in the heel – A little lift will flatter the leg and add polish to an outfit. A lot of lift will add pressure and discomfort. No lift can appear frumpy and uncoordinated. When in doubt a 1 – 2 inch heel can give you the look without the displeasure.

Out with the old – It may be your old standby but it may be dating you. A new pair of shoes, handbag or accessories can instantly update an outfit and you. A few new pieces each year will make you feel younger and more modern.

Whether we like it or not, the choices we make will have an impact on how we are seen and ultimately how we will feel. Aging doesn’t have to mean dated or old. Balancing comfort with fashion will ensure that you continue to appear youthful and stylish.

For more on this topic see our blog post ‘How to Look Younger Without Going Under a Knife’.

Kimberly Law, AICI CIP, is principal of Personal Impact International founded in 1999. She is an internationally recognized image & etiquette industry leader; Image subject expert/ spokesperson for the international media. She is an author, speaker and works with companies, men and women helping them refine their look from head to toe and enhance professional communication, increasing confidence and personal effectiveness to help her clients look and act their very best, always!  She currently serves as President of the Association of Image Consultants International for the 2011- 2013 term. Do you have Personal Impact? Find out with our FREE Self-assessments.For further information or to arrange an interview please contact Kimberly Law at 604-298-7228, email kim@personalimpact.ca or visit www.personalimpact.ca

The post 8 Fashion Mistakes that Make You look Older appeared first on BC Jobs Blog.

How often have you thought you had found a great deal on a suit, a dress or a shirt and bought it on a whim, only to get home and discover that it practically disintegrated with the first washing? All too often, we are taken in by these so-called deals that are really just low prices for low quality clothing.

Like any other investment, investment dressing relates to how the item performs over time. The longer you are able to wear the garment, the more wears you get, the better the investment. This strategy can work especially well for your business wardrobe. Although it may seem that you are paying more money for your clothing, you are going to be getting a better return on your investment over time. The trick is to spot these smart buys that will help you build an investment wardrobe that you can wear to work for years to come.

Go for Quality Fabrics

Paying more for clothing that is made of better fabric is a smart business decision. In fact, the type of fabric used in your clothes can make all the difference in how good you look and how the garment holds up over time. A cheap polyester suit will look far worse than the exact same design in a light-weight wool. Choose the better fabric and you won´t regret it. Real silk, linen and wool are all fabrics that look terrific and will add quality to your investment wardrobe. Blends with a high level content of natural fibers can work well too. Wool blends will be less itchy, linen blends will wrinkle less, and silk blends will usually breathe more.

Look for Timeless Pieces

Although it is great to wear the latest fashions and trends, there is something to be said for the little black dress or the tailored trousers that is appropriate for all occasions. If you look for clothing that has shapes, lines, patterns and colours that aren´t trendy, and details that are minimal – but always look good – you have a winner. This includes pencil skirts, sheath dresses and simple blouses. These are items of clothing that could hold their own in any decade; not for being at the height of fashion, but for their simplicity and quiet class.

Make It All Work Together

The best way to build your investment wardrobe is to plan your entire wardrobe for versatility. With a little planning, a wardrobe capsules consisting of two or three pairs of pants, three to five shirts/blouses, a suit, a nice tailored jacket and for women a couple of skirts, can actually work as a complete business wardrobe. Choose just two or three classic colors in fabrics and styles that all complement each other, and you will be able to mix and match your entire wardrobe, creating dozens of different outfits. Throw in an accessory like a scarf or tie, incorporate some coordinating belts and quality shoes, and you can have even more looks – all with just a few select items.

Investment dressing is smart business dressing. Take a few minutes to plan out your basic business wardrobe and choose a couple of colors to base it on. Then it´s time to go shopping. Stick to the plan, choose high quality items in timeless styles, and at the end of your day you will have a wardrobe that will last you a long time and suit every business occasion.

The post Investment Dressing for Business: Save Money with Better Quality appeared first on BC Jobs Blog.

The buffet line-up can be a great place to strike up a conversation. Spending all your time there will not make the best impression.

Food is best saved for thought, not conversation. Juggling food and drink can present challenges when meeting people, shaking hands or while trying to carry on a conversation.

When holding a drink, use your left hand. This will keep your right hand dry and available for shaking hands with others.

Barbeques and ball games are in a league of their own and may warrant drinking out of cans and bottles. However for most events glasses over bottles are the preferred choice.

Don’t forget your networking tools! Bring business cards, brochures or profiles and wear a nametag.

Name tags should be worn in line of vision. This means on the right, close to the shoulder. When you extend your right arm to shake hands, the eye is automatically drawn to that area.

Feeling lonely? Approach people standing on their own, groups of three or larger groups. When approaching a group of two you may be interrupting a private conversation and it could become awkward or uncomfortable. (https://mrghealth.com)

If you are sitting when someone approaches you, show respect and interest by standing when greeting them and shake their hand.

To meet and greet professionally; make eye contact, smile, shake hands and say hello. Introduce yourself with your first and last name and, if appropriate, state your relationship to the host.

Don’t use nick-names. Listen to how people introduce themselves and follow their lead. Ask permission before shortening a name or trying out a nickname, just in case it’s not appreciated. Nick-names such as sweetie and honey are never appropriate in a business setting.

Avoid taboo topics like politics, religion, sex or money. In other words, stay away from anything personal or controversial.

Ease up on the sales pressure. Instead show interest with questions, small talk and light conversation. Current events make great conversation when kept non-controversial.

Give and receive business cards respectfully. When a business card is offered to you, hold it respectfully and look at it before putting it away. When offering your business card, present it so it can be read, with the printing facing the person receiving the card. Always wait to be asked, before presenting your business card.

With a little effort and self control, business events can be a fast, fun way to build your business network.

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The post Networking Etiquette How to Mingle Like a Pro appeared first on BC Jobs Blog.

Although it is great to dress in a way that reflects your personality, some people take it to the extreme and don’t consider the occasion or their objective at the time. This can affect how you are perceived. Others may feel uncomfortable around you if you don’t fit their expectations. So, even though your personality is important, you need to take the purpose of the occasion into consideration. If you are unsure of the appropriate way to dress for the occasion, consider your goals first and dress accordingly, or follow the lead of others; then add a few finishing touches that reflect your personality.

A good fit is also crucial. It doesn’t matter how gorgeous or well-made a garment is: if it doesn’t fit properly, it won’t look good. You are not going to look well put-together; and you are definitely not going to look credible. If it almost fits, consider having it altered. Minor alterations will make an outfit look more expensive. Even changing the buttons on a jacket can make a big difference. (www.luljettas.com) Alterations can make your clothing look more expensive and make you look more successful.

The condition of your clothing and accessories is also very important. Often we will throw things on without checking if they are wrinkled or faded, if the hem is being held up by safety pins, or if the shoes are scuffed. These are all things that can send a negative message about your image and you. If you are sloppy about the way you dress and the way you take care of your clothing, you may be perceived as being sloppy about the way you do your work and how you handle other things in your life, as well. Condition is very important.

Hygiene and Grooming are other things that are very important, and that are always noticed when neglected. Poor hygiene, or perceived poor hygiene, will immediately influence peoples’ impression about you, and can hold your social and business interactions back. Hygiene includes anything to do with cleanliness such as body odor, teeth, breath, skin condition, dandruff, etc. Nobody wants to be around somebody that smells bad or looks dirty. Grooming such as hair care, make-up, and nail care are the finishing touches that complete our look.

Some of us forget that clothing and accessory styles change over time. Although it is easy to fall into the trap of continuing to wear a suit that you have had hanging in your closet for five years, it may look dated. Many men and women don’t consider the subtle fashion changes that happen over time. The lapels, silhouettes, or the number of buttons for a modern look may have changed. For women, the jacket lengths or pant leg style may have changed. Business clothing should never be flashy or extremely trendy; but at the same time it should be up-to-date and current.

Make the big statement projected by your little details a positive and professional one – it will impact your business dealings, and add to the overall success of your professional image.

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The post 5 Tiny Turn-offs that Sabotage Your Professional Image appeared first on BC Jobs Blog.

Eight Tips on Buying a New Business Suit

The quality business suit should look and feel comfortable. 100% wool is still considered the best quality for a business suit and will reflect a professional image. The smoother the texture, the more refined the suit will appear.  For moderate and warmer climates, ‘tropical weight’ or ‘four season’s weight’ fabrics will give you the most wearability.

• • Check for flaws in the fabric such as holes, weakened or thin areas. This is an indication of poor quality fabric. Avoid buying a business suit made with recycled fibers.
  • Watch out for loose threads or crooked stitching. All threads including topstitching should match the fabric unless designed for contrast. Contrast stitching is seldom appropriate for a man’s business suit although many women’s suits have this detail.
  • Fully lined jackets drape best and look more finished. Check to see that the lining is smooth. Although a half lined jacket will feel more comfortable in warmer climates, it will only be appropriate for a relaxed work environment.
  • Lined trousers drape best. For comfort in warmer weather, trousers may be lined to the knee.
  • Patterns such as stripes, checks and plaids should match up at the seams.
  • Check all buttons and fasteners to make sure they are securely sewn on. Additional buttons should be included in your purchase… just in case.
  • Edges and corners should lie flat without bulk or puckering.  Hems are secure and invisible from the outside.

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A quality business suit that is well maintained will enhance your professional image and look great for many years. Learn to make the most of your purchase by judging the quality of ‘those little details’ before you buy.
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The post How to Buy a Quality Business Suit appeared first on BC Jobs Blog.

Dress to Impress
Notice what your boss and your clients typically wear. To impress your boss, dress for business at the same level or slighty more casual. If your boss wears a jacket, so should you. To impress your client, dress at the same level or a little more formal. If your client’s always wear jeans, you might want to leave the jacket and the jeans at home. Dress more casually for success with a collared top and/or tailored style bottom.

Avoid Image Blunders
Everything has it’s time and place. Sexy, Frumpy, Sweaty and Vulgar have no place in the work place… even on casual day. Clothing worn for special activities should be saved for those activities.

Dress Down with Style
Even on casual business days, be prepared. Keep a coordinating jacket handy to dress up a little for the unexpected meeting with the boss or conservative clients.

Plan Ahead for Professional Polish
When it comes to your personal appearance, it’s the little things that count. Good grooming really does make a big difference. You… and your clothing should be in tip-top condition.

Add a Little Pizzazz
Take it easy on the Accessories. Accessories can create the look that says, “This is who I am”. Accessories are the extras that can give each of us individual style. But remember, in business less is more.

Impress with Less for Less
Yes, it is possible to look professional on a budget. Choose quality over quantity. Buy quality fabrics and timeless styles… the best you can afford. Choose season-less fabrics such as lightweight wools, fine cottons, and silks. Natural fibres look and feel more expensive and can be worn all year round. (https://youngmedicalspa.com)

Think in Threes
In business, less is better when in comes to colour. Wear no more than three colours at once including accessories. Patterns count as one colour. Colours and styles that mix and match create Wardrobe Capsules that save you time and money.

Make a Statement in Shades
Have you ever wondered why the traditional navy or grey suit worn with a white shirt and tie became known as “The Power Suit”?  A dark or muted jacket worn with a white or light coloured top highlights the face adding authority and presence.

Make a Little Adjustment
Making small alterations to the sleeves, hemline and waistline or simply changing the buttons can make your clothing look custom tailored, and you look like a million.

When in doubt dress up
In business, it’s better to be over dressed than under dressed… especially if you are trying to make good impression.  But keep in mind that consistency is also important. If one day you are wearing a business suit with a collared shirt and the next day you show up for work wearing wrinkled pants with an old T-shirt, co-workers and clients will be confused. It takes consistency in your personal appearance to convey a business image.

When it comes to business dress, even in a casual environment, if it doesn’t seem quite right, it probably isn’t. Dress for Success by using common sense and tasteful good judgment. This can create positive impressions that will help you soar to the top.

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