If you want to truly succeed in the workplace, you need to have a professional image. Here are 5 easy things you can do to take the way you present yourself to the next level.
One of the biggest reasons people don’t land their dream job is the lack of passion. Instead of saying, “I applied for the job because I need one,” make a lasting impression on the employer.
Skills can be taught, passion can’t.
What are YOU going to do for the company that no one else can?
If you want to be taken seriously in your career, then it might be time to brush up on your professional image. This means you have to erase those college fraternity pictures from Facebook.
That’s just a start.
Here are 5 things to help present yourself professionally…
1) Clean Up Social Media
This is one of the biggest ways to clean up your professional image, which is why we considered it #1.
Sure, is a chance for people to get to know you, what you do during the day, the people you hang out with, etc.
Facebook gives a lot of unexpected information – what posts you’ve “liked”, what kind of comments you wrote on certain posts…
Employers can find that.
The same applies to newspaper articles. If an employer Googles your name, chances are they will see what comments you’ve left on articles or blog posts.
Did you get into a heated argument with another user?
Did you use a fake name?
What a lot of people do is have a professional page separate from their personal. Use the professional page to show off your accomplishments and for networking.
2) Be Positive
Are you constantly finding ways to find the fault in an argument? So you’re considered the Negative Nancy of the workplace.
Have a positive attitude towards your work. Constructive criticism is fine if you’re helping find a solution.
Instead of saying, “No, that’s not going to work”, make suggestions or brainstorm ideas with colleagues.
Not only are you helpful, but you’re also being a team player.
3) Be Respectful
Lateness, rudeness, and lack of communication are just disrespectful. Build your professional image by having good manners.
Besides, word travels fast in the workplace. You don’t want that kind of reputation, do you?
When in doubt, remember The Golden Rule, “Treat others how you want to be treated.”
4) Timing Is Key
Meetings aren’t fun, especially when they take up almost all of your day. But, that’s part of the job and you’re kind of a big deal.
Be on time for meetings and appointments. It shows responsibility and your interest.
Don’t run out of the conference room once it’s over, ask questions. Stick around to chat with executives and colleagues.
5) Body Language
Gestures and eye contact are extremely important for your professional image.
Show the employer that you’re confident. Sit upright, keep your arms open, and smile!
Have the staff at Northbrook Dentist Office whiten your teeth so when you walk into the room, everyone is staring at that million dollar smile!
Your Professional Image Starts with You!
So now you have some thinking to do. Start polishing up your professional image by going through all social media accounts.
Go down the list. Clean out your wardrobe. Look and dress the part.
If you need more employment advice, check out . You’ll be a CEO yet!
