http://amdt

Chapter Fifteen: D r e s s t o I m p r e s s !

Is th

is how you dress?

Are you “stuck” in a time warp?

Does it really make a difference how you look? Well, if you are seriously thinking about starting a home-based agency- or applying for that position you really want, then you will ultimately have to take a serious "look" at your ...well...looks! Your knowledge and expertise are the most important part of you, but the fact is that you will need to address the way you look! Yes, sales people (and that means you) are judged by their looks!

Take the quiz:

Have you maintained the same hairstyle for more than two years?
Are you wearing clothes that have been out of style for years?
Are you wearing shoes that are old and worn out?
When was the last time you changed the way you apply your make-up (women only!)
Are you a good candidate for TLC's show "What not to Wear"?

If you answered yes to at least two of these questions, then you need to address the way you look! According to Kim Zoller at Image Dynamics, 55% of another person's perception of you is based on how you look. In fact, many studies confirm that attractive people earn more money. But what does “attractive” mean? “Attractive” does not mean being the “best looking”. It simply means looking your best! Hair, make-up, clothing, and overall grooming is what makes a person attractive. It has nothing to do with weight, height, or natural features. It has to do with simply doing what it takes to look your personal best.

Do attractive people really make more money?

http://bizcovering.com/business-and-society/beautiful-people-earn-12-more-than-the-unattractive-ones/

I know you’re on a budget!

Most people are on a very tight budget. Especially people starting their own business! But if you are starting a business then it becomes even more important to look your best. So make this a priority.

Hint: Buy versatile suits that are medium weight and that can be worn virtually year-round.

Where should you begin?

Start in your closet. Take a critical look at what you might wear if you were to meet with a perspective client. Ask honest questions. Do you think it’s time for a new suit? Next, take a look at your “look”. Do you need a new hairstyle?

Hit the stores. Once you determine what you need, make a list and hit the stores. For women, stores like Ann Taylor and Talbots offer timeless classics. For both women and men on a budget, the best place to start would be larger department stores like Macys or Dillards. These larger stores offer personal shoppers (free of charge) that will assist you in picking out the perfect business attire. For women, make-up counters always offer free make-overs and general advice. Take advantage of these services and follow the advice.

Ten items every women needs in her closet:

http://chicstories.com/fashion-tips/wardrobe-basics-items-every-woman-should-have/l

Make an appointment at a SALON- not Supercuts. It it’s true that you “get what you pay for” then now is the time to make an appointment with a good salon that will design a classic updated look specifically for you. Even if you only go one time, you will leave with an updated look that suits your features. Most shops like Supercuts will be able to maintain the style for you.

Women	Men
Solid color, conservative suit Coordinated blouse Moderate shoes Limited jewelry Neat, professional hairstyle Tan or light hosiery Sparse make-up & perfume Manicured nails Portfolio or briefcase	Solid color, conservative suit White long sleeve shirt Conservative tie Dark socks, professional shoes Very limited jewelry Neat, professional hairstyle Go easy on the aftershave Neatly trimmed nails Portfolio or briefcase

Men and Women

Conservative two-piece business suit (solid dark blue or grey is best)
Conservative long-sleeved shirt/blouse (white is best, pastel is next best)
Clean, polished conservative shoes
Well-groomed hairstyle
Clean, trimmed fingernails
Minimal cologne or perfume
Empty pockets--no bulges or tinkling coins
No gum, candy or cigarettes
Light briefcase or portfolio case
No visible body piercing (nose rings, eyebrow rings, etc.)

Men

Necktie should be silk with a conservative pattern
Dark shoes (black lace-ups are best)
Dark socks (black is best)
Get a haircut; short hair always fares best in interviews
No beards (unless you are interviewing for a job as a lumberjack!)
Mustaches are a possible negative, but if you must, make sure it is neat and trimmed
No rings other than wedding ring or college ring
No earrings (if you normally wear one, take it out)