If you haven’t already, you will undoubtedly be faced with situations where you need to bring out your best outfit and your best behavior, if you haven’t already. This could mean job interviews, conferences, presentations, and more. Here are some key things that will make you look fabulously professional and will guarantee your success.
1. Put your phone away
As I write this, I cringe at how much I sound like my professors. The truth is, they are right! We are obsessed with our phones and as soon as there is a dull moment, we turn to our phones to find something that will do a better job of entertaining us. If you are with someone on a professional level, take my advice and put your phone away; it’s rude and it will make you come off as immature.
2. Repeat after me: Eye contact is key
And add a couple of nods and smiles in there too! You will look more engaged and attentive rather than if you are looking around the room or down at your lap.
3. Dress to impress
You have got to know what to wear and when to wear it. If you are at an interview, you should know that jean shorts and a graphic T-shirt are not the outfits of the day. Opt for something modest and elegant, such as black jeans (with no holes) and a fancy blouse.
4. Ask questions
It’s kind of like a first date; the more questions you ask, the more engaged you appear and the more people are going to take you seriously. However, no matter what anyone says, there are such things as dumb questions.
5. Be polite, yet assertive
This is self-explanatory. Nobody likes those loud and obnoxious people that seem to take over every conversation, but they also don’t like the shy lumps in the corner that don’t say a word the whole time.
Follow these tips and you will be sure to nail whatever professional event you have coming up! Good luck!