Yes first impressions are everything!
What does your first impression say about you? Do you generally smile at a person passing you by? Nine times out of ten, I am smiling and you will not be able to tell if I am having a bad day. Sometimes a smile can brighten another person's day. So try it!
How do you plan to get ahead in life if your character and general approach to situations are similar to others? I am a firm believer that another person's situation is worse than my own, so why not make the best out of any situation or circumstance? Trying to remain positive while life has got you down may be difficult, sometimes we have to "literally" grin and bear it. Keep emotions and personal affairs to a minimum when dealing with business matters. Humans tend to feed off of one another, so why not feed someone with a compliment, or a nice gesture?
Let's think about a few things and decide where you may need to make changes in your life.
How do you plan to get ahead in life if your character and general approach to situations are similar to others? I am a firm believer that another person's situation is worse than my own, so why not make the best out of any situation or circumstance? Trying to remain positive while life has got you down may be difficult, sometimes we have to "literally" grin and bear it. Keep emotions and personal affairs to a minimum when dealing with business matters. Humans tend to feed off of one another, so why not feed someone with a compliment, or a nice gesture?
Let's think about a few things and decide where you may need to make changes in your life.
Not Here To Judge; Simply Here To Help!!!
Personal Appearance
A well put together outfit does not have to be expensive. Keep in mind you do not have to wear "name brand" clothes to feel or look good. You do not have to mimic fashion models, magazines, or actors see on T.V. Clean, freshly ironed clothes goes a lot further than one may think.
Mannerism
What happened to saying excuse me, please, thank you, yes ma'am or yes sir? As a society, are we so self-centered that we have become incapable of using manners? Mannerisms, or a lack thereof, has become a social barrier in the workplace. There is nothing wrong with being courteous and helpful to those around you. Plus, it generates good karma!
Proper English
I dislike to use the jargon "speaking white", but a lot of people confuse this with speaking proper English. It is not a matter of being judgmental, or bias, but a matter of being apart of the working class and using proper ENGLISH.
Common Courtesy
Consideration seems to be obsolete as well, rather in personal or professional relationships. Simple gestures such as letting someone know you are going to be late or not making it all, or giving someone a heads up to allow them to prepare, can truly go along way. Consideration alleviates added tension in the workplace. You are not the only person who is stressed, dealing with personal issues, or under serious time constraints.
Constructive Criticism
Now this can be a touchy subject for some, as we are quick to jump on the defense when we feel someone is attacking us. But think for a minute, is what being said true? You can not disagree with the truth. You can, but that would be counterproductive. The objective is to become a better person and be aware of setbacks (i.e., bad attitudes!!). Take a moment to evaluate what was said and use it to your advantage. Now if you are constantly around a negative person who can not find anything positive to say, then you need to remove yourself from NEGATIVE PEOPLE, or are you the negative person?? SELF CHECK!
A well put together outfit does not have to be expensive. Keep in mind you do not have to wear "name brand" clothes to feel or look good. You do not have to mimic fashion models, magazines, or actors see on T.V. Clean, freshly ironed clothes goes a lot further than one may think.
Mannerism
What happened to saying excuse me, please, thank you, yes ma'am or yes sir? As a society, are we so self-centered that we have become incapable of using manners? Mannerisms, or a lack thereof, has become a social barrier in the workplace. There is nothing wrong with being courteous and helpful to those around you. Plus, it generates good karma!
Proper English
I dislike to use the jargon "speaking white", but a lot of people confuse this with speaking proper English. It is not a matter of being judgmental, or bias, but a matter of being apart of the working class and using proper ENGLISH.
Common Courtesy
Consideration seems to be obsolete as well, rather in personal or professional relationships. Simple gestures such as letting someone know you are going to be late or not making it all, or giving someone a heads up to allow them to prepare, can truly go along way. Consideration alleviates added tension in the workplace. You are not the only person who is stressed, dealing with personal issues, or under serious time constraints.
Constructive Criticism
Now this can be a touchy subject for some, as we are quick to jump on the defense when we feel someone is attacking us. But think for a minute, is what being said true? You can not disagree with the truth. You can, but that would be counterproductive. The objective is to become a better person and be aware of setbacks (i.e., bad attitudes!!). Take a moment to evaluate what was said and use it to your advantage. Now if you are constantly around a negative person who can not find anything positive to say, then you need to remove yourself from NEGATIVE PEOPLE, or are you the negative person?? SELF CHECK!
professionally dressed women
Remember, there is nothing wrong with self-improvement. If you are concerned about your style, manners or etiquette, let's brainstorm and see how we can make an improvement! If you do not have business clothes, or can't afford to purchase items at full price, please click on the Resources tab to guide you in building a professional wardrobe. I recently read an article and it only takes a few items. The following pieces of clothing can make an immediate impact:
2 Blazers (black and navy)
4 White Blouses (or light colors)
4 Skirts/Slacks
2 pair of heels or dress shoes
2 Blazers (black and navy)
4 White Blouses (or light colors)
4 Skirts/Slacks
2 pair of heels or dress shoes
professionally dressed men
Keep in mind you don't have to spend a fortune to look professional. Simple items go a long way such as:
2 dress sweaters
4 dress shirts
3 pair of dress slacks (kahkis are okay, but no pockets on the leg or the side)
3 to 4 business ties (try not to wear loud, bright colors to an interview)
2 pair of dress shoes (laces or loafers are acceptable)
If you are questioning what you are wearing is okay, ask yourself this question when you look in the mirror: "Am I ready for a job interview or a night at the bar?"
GWP will provide you with a portfolio, thumb drive and a pen to help you begin your journey towards pulling off that professional look!!
2 dress sweaters
4 dress shirts
3 pair of dress slacks (kahkis are okay, but no pockets on the leg or the side)
3 to 4 business ties (try not to wear loud, bright colors to an interview)
2 pair of dress shoes (laces or loafers are acceptable)
If you are questioning what you are wearing is okay, ask yourself this question when you look in the mirror: "Am I ready for a job interview or a night at the bar?"
GWP will provide you with a portfolio, thumb drive and a pen to help you begin your journey towards pulling off that professional look!!
Are you interested in learning how to become successful with online interviewing? Click the link to sign up for LCC's Acing a Virtual Interview facilitated by ReChelle Benson! Course will be held Saturday, February 27th from 11a-2:30p, so sign up today! Contact us if you have any questions.