I’m a natural blonde, and when people ask me why I dye my hair, I usually answer “because brunettes make more money”.
I’m only half kidding.
Like it or not, how you dress impacts on how you’re perceived in the workplace. And perception is huge. Despite how competent and skilled you are at your job, social skills and appearance are just as important in getting yourself promoted and up the career ladder. If you think I’m being superficial, take a moment to think about the top leaders in your workplace. Aside from a few rare cases of eccentric genius (or the lucky ones who founded their own startups) all of these high-achievers show up to work well-dressed and well groomed. (Statistically, they’re in good shape too. Like it or not, being overweight also hinders your career. )
Fake it Till You Make It
You may have heard the advice that you should dress for the position you’re aiming for, rather than the position you’re in. This is somewhat true, although you should never outdress your direct superior. Going too over-the-top with your outfits becomes obvious and alienates you. But dressing at the same level as your boss will ensure you’re looking capable and ready for the next promotion. Every workplace is different, but just because one of your co-workers gets away with wearing yoga pants every day doesn’t mean you should follow suit.
Lie About Your Age
I’m young for my level of experience in my field, so when I’m interviewing for jobs and meeting new clients I try to look older. Looking too young will hinder you in your career: nobody is giving a leadership position to someone who looks like they stepped out of kindergarden. When you transition from college to the workplace, you will need to update your wardrobe, makeup, and hair. Bright eyeshadow, multicoloured chunky highlights, and Hello Kitty jewelry won’t cut it in the office. While it’s unlikely you will be directly reprimanded or fired for youthful attire (in most situations it’s illegal from an HR perspective anyway) you won’t be perceived as mature. My tricks are wearing glasses, red lipstick, and dark colours to look older.
On the flip side, when you’re aging, the goal is to look younger. (In an ideal world we would all be 30 forever) There is a right way and a wrong way to do this: for example, pigtails should *never* be worn by a woman over 40, and the same goes for miniskirts (even a 20-year-old size 0 should not wear a miniskirt to work, as explained in the next section). Dark hair generally emphasizes wrinkles and can make skin look harsh, so going lighter can take off years (but not california bleach-blonde, please). Avoid boxy and matronly shapes, and learn to dress for your body type to achieve a flattering silhouette.
Leave the Sex Kitten at Home
It’s totally possible to dress professionally and be feminine and pretty at the same time. But a huge mistake is to dress *too* sexy at the office. It’s not the issue of men being too distracted by a sexy co-worker (If a man really can’t do his job when there’s an attractive female around, it’s a sign that he’s lacking discipline and focus, and he should get help.) but it affects your credibility. While revealing clothing may gain the attention of male peers in the short-term, they won’t be taking you as seriously and show you the same respect. Would you feel comfortable reporting to a boss who shoves her cleavage in your face?
Miniskirts are a definite no. Also avoid too much cleavage or anything that is too form fitting. Fishnets, bra straps, and open-backed dresses can be cute in the evening: but they’re not doing you any favours at work. You can also lay off the strong perfumes and heavy makeup. If you’re planning on going out after work, a sexy outfit can be toned down by a cover-up sweater, shawl, or by wearing leggings under short skirts during the day for an easy transition.
Dressing for work doesn’t have to be bland and depressing. You can show off your style with a cute heel, a great fit, and unique jewelery. But save the smoky eyeshadow and flashy “wow” fashions for after-hours and weekends. The attention you receive at work should be for being sophisticated, smart, and great at your job: not for your spilling cleavage or wacky over-the-top hairstyles. Oh, and the neck tattoo? Unless your career is in off-the-books “distribution”, find a good laser removal clinic before you send out your resume.
