Dress for success

I'm gearing up for another Professionalism class this week. One of our simple lessons that seems to be unknown everywhere is "dress for success."

This doesn't mean you have to wear an expensive suit; but know: 1) where you work, 2) with whom you're dealing, and 3) what's appropriate and what's not.

Some people show up at work dressed like Britney Spears or Kid Rock on a bad day  (or would it be "good day" for Kid Rock?) and think nothing of it. The repeated comment I hear is, "It doesn't bother me; why should it bother anyone else?"

Because this is business. And because everyone is not like you. Who are your clients? Where are they located? Are they younger or older than you? Are there other cultural standards (religion, family, etc.) that influence how they do business?

How you dress demonstrates respect for you and those around you. Be appropriate. What does your outfit say -- "I have respect for you and myself" or "I just came off a bad bender"?