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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What Not to Wear to the Company Picnic

The post Clothes That Don’t Work for Work appeared first on BC Jobs Blog.

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.

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.

Shop your closet
Before you spend a cent, you need to take stock of what you have. Lay out everything you have that’s “work appropriate” and be honest with what you find. Does it all fit? Can it be taken in or let out? Is it stained and have you tried to have it professionally cleaned? Is the garment in poor condition? Can it be repaired? Be realistic and set aside three piles: items to be professionally cleaned, items to be repaired by a tailor, and items to pitch. You can donate them if you think someone would use them, but if they’re damaged beyond use, it’s probably best to toss them.

See your drycleaners
If you’re on a tight budget, you probably don’t spend a lot of time at the drycleaners but they’re experts at removing tough stains. The fifteen or twenty dollars (or less) you spend on stain removal will likely you save tens or even hundreds of dollars replacing the garment. If they can’t get the stain out, you’re still on the hook for the bill, but it’s a small investment compared to replacing a garment every time it gets stained.

Meet your tailor
Tailoring clothes you already own that don’t fit properly or are in poor repair is one of the single best cost-saving measures you can take. A good tailor can dramatically alter the way clothes fit your body, as well as repairing a wide variety of rips, wears and tears, all at a fraction of what it would cost you to replace them. And don’t forget about your shoes. Cobblers are tailors for your footwear and they can fix those scuffed dress shoes or stripped high heels for a lot less than the cost of new shoes.

Shop smarter
Now that you’ve taken stock, cleaned, adjusted and repaired your interview clothes, it’s time to fill in any gaps. Even on a strict budget, you have a number of options when shopping for new work wear.

• Be thrifty: Shop thrift stores for quality clothes that fit the widest part of your body. If it’s quality item, it can probably be taken in or let out or even repaired on a shoe-string budget.

• Stay posted: Sign up for the email lists from your favorite stores, as many stores have special sales and promotions for their mailing list customers only and you can get a great bargain.

• Hunt off-season: If possible, re-up your missing pieces out-of-season for the deepest discounts as stores try to empty their seasonal stock.

• Buy online: If you find a brand you like hugely discounted online, consider buying it and having it tailored. This works better for some pieces than others; make sure you know the store’s return policy. You can’t usually alter clothes and then return them.

• Be practical: Most people wear 25% of their wardrobe 80% of the time. This means that often it pays to invest a little more in a new garment as it will last longer and cost you less per wear. Read the cleaning instructions on the label before you buy and make sure you’re prepared to follow them. A great sweater at a discount that requires professional cleaning is no bargain at all. Also remember that no matter how much you like the look of a garment or how well it fits you, if you’re on a budget then your whole work wardrobe needs to work together and mix well. (Xanax) That green paisley dress shirt doesn’t make much sense when all your suits are blue and patterned.

Putting it together
Do a trial run the day before your interview and give yourself a thorough going over. Is everything clean and sharp? Does it fit well? Is it interview appropriate? If you’re not sure then it probably isn’t. If your employer hasn’t told you the dress code, treat it like a test of your common sense and good judgement. It’s better to over-dress than under-dress.

Accessorize
Accessories like your bag, coat, watch, scarves and jewelry are a “do”–but only in moderation. The goal of careful accessorizing is to look complete–well planned but effortless. Too many accessories are worse than none at all. Dress for the weather, wear colors that compliment each other, keep jewelry small and tasteful so they don’t distract, and make sure that your bag (you know, the one with your resume and references) doesn’t undo all your hard work. It should be clean, in good repair and compliment the rest of your image.

Details, details
Make sure your hair is clean and reflects a the professional image you’ve created with your clothes and accessories. Men should make sure any facial hair looks tidy and trimmed. Remember to keep scented products away from the office–many employers have policies against them due to allergies. Make sure your nails are clean and that any polish is chip-free. Women should make certain their makeup is conservative.

Keeping up appearances
Keep your interview clothes in good condition by changing out of them as soon as you get home. If your clothes need professional cleaning or tailoring, separate them out.Otherwise, hang them straight away on wood or padded hangers (never wire–they warp!) or else fold them so they don’t crease. Keep your favorite stain remover on hand and follow the cleaning directions on the label to make the most of your investments.
Related to Your Interview Wardrobe on a Budget:

• Researching potential employers
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The post Your Interview Wardrobe on a Budget appeared first on BC Jobs Blog.

So what are some tips to find a job as the temperature rises?

Try Temping. Many businesses need vacation coverage for business critical roles or to help manage key projects or initiatives. The summer still means business as usual for many companies and the work needs to get done. This is your chance to audition for the job — proving your skills and competencies in the working environment. Demonstrating your value to the organization may result in a permanent job at the end of the contract. (www.sacredmusicstudio.com)

Strike while the iron is hot. Many job seekers are probably thinking like you — that companies are taking a break from hiring over the summer, so what’s the point in applying? This notion is false, although may work in your favour as there may be less competition in the market. Truth is, if the time is right for you, then the time is right to be job hunting.

Socialize. With summer parties in full swing, now is the best time to be networking and sourcing contacts to help you in your job search. Let people know that you’re actively looking for new opportunities and follow up on any potential leads. Don’t forget to personally thank anyone who offers their help!

Dress appropriately. While some companies may give their employees the opportunity to dress more casually during the warm weather, this does not apply to your interview attire. It is still important to look your best at interviews, so ensure you bring a suit jacket or blazer to cover up during the meeting. If you’re temping, make sure you observe summer attire policies and err on the side of conservative if ever in doubt as to what to wear.

Consider seasonal employment. With the tourism, hospitality and recreation sectors working overtime, there is generally increased hiring activity over the summer. While it may not be your dream job, seasonal work will get you out earning a paycheque and gaining experience. It is perfect for those returning to school in the fall or looking to supplement their income while they search for other opportunities.

Reward yourself. Job hunting can often be a stressful undertaking, especially when friends and family are out enjoying the sunshine. Whether it’s taking an ice cream break or walking along the water, rewarding yourself will help ensure you stay motivated in your job search.

While it may be hard to watch everyone out enjoying the summer months while you’re inside job searching, maximizing your efficiency will help get you out enjoying the sunshine as well. It’s about working smarter not harder. So grab your sunglasses, head out to a patio and network your way to a new career!

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• Recruitment Cycles – The Best Time to Apply for a Job

The post Hot Fun In the City – How to Keep Your Job Search Cool This Summer 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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The post Dress for Success..the Modern Way appeared first on BC Jobs Blog.

Would you ask for a raise wearing…

• Loud colors?
• Bold patterns?
• Oversized buttons?
• Tank tops?
• Tee shirts?
• Athletic shorts?
• Athletic sandals?
• Scuffed shoes?
• Shiny or see-through fabrics?
• Tight/revealing clothing?
• Ripped jeans?
• Showy belt buckles?
• Anything dirty, stained, or torn?
• Shirts with offensive words or pictures?
• Tattoos/piercings?

Women, could you keep a straight face asking for a bonus wearing…

• Fishnet stockings?
• Visible lingerie (bra straps, garter belts, etc.)?
• Glitter/club makeup?

Men, how will it affect your total cash compensation if you sport…

• Messy facial hair?
• Baseball cap?
• Bawdy tie?

Would you pay more for a dirty car?

Think of yourself, for the sake of illustration, in terms of a product you sell your company every year. If you want to resell the product at a higher price next year, you’ll do your best to present it in good, clean working order. That includes the following:

• Cleanliness – Practices vary from culture to culture, but in North American business it’s customary to arrive at work having showered and shampooed within the previous 24 hours.
• Groomed nails – Fingernails should be kept clean, short or moderate in length – and out of your mouth.
• Cheerful breath – Food-related bad breath can be managed by keeping a toothbrush at work for those after-lunch meetings. Chronic bad breath is a treatable medical condition; consult your doctor if you think it’s you.
• Understated scent – Light, discreet perfumes and colognes are a form of personal expression and pride; but overpowering scents can distract from your work performance.

It’s fine to carve out your individual style, but remember to keep your image professional. Going too far from your organization’s accepted standards can detract from your more important messages about your work.

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The post Business attire how to dress in clothes that say “pay me more” appeared first on BC Jobs Blog.