to wear to
BUSINESS MEETING
The adage goes:
You never get a second chance to make a first impression.
The pressure to look good, as well as deliver a perfect
presentation, needn't lead to panic. Instead, follow these
timeless tips and make sure you stand out for the right reasons.
What you wear to work matters
200/0
of workers believe that
those wearing casual
dress in the workplace
are 'slackers'.
550/0
of workers agree that
wearing business
attire makes people
more productive.
66%
of workers agree
senior managers
should always be
more dressed up
than their employees.
According to a survey conducted by 34SP.com, the suit
remains the most suitable choice for business meetings.
What's appropriate for a business meeting?
Acceptable O Not Acceptable
So when you're meeting a prospective client or
connection for the first time, dress for success.
Men
Get the right fit
A badly fitted suit will be
obvious — shoulders
should sit square and
trousers should break
just before the shoe.
Pay attention
to detail
Clothes should be
clean, ironed and
fresh. Stains or loose
buttons are a no-go.
Polish your shoes
timeless option. Just keep
them the same tone, or
darker than your trousers.
General
Keep on top
of grooming
Keep nails clean and
hair well trimmed,
Wear a
classic watch
A stylish leather-banded
wristwatch will make
a statement when you
rest your hands on
the meeting table,
Think classic
rather than trendy
Avoid loud suit colours
or shirt patterns. You
can show off your
personality elsewhere.
Look the part
Consider any social or
geographical influences
meeting with international clients,
research what is and isntt appropriate.
This might mean covering up skin,
or upping your formality
Dress to the same level as,
or a level above, your clients
For instance, if meeting high-level
executives who favour suits,
dress in a similar manner.
Dress appropriately for your
industry, Your work will dictate
if you need creative or
conservative business attire.
Stick to
comfortable materials
Synthetic materials may trigger
sweating. Instead, go for crease-free
cotton, which lets the skin breathe,
Women
Keep hair smooth
and simple
Avoid letting your hair fall in
front of your face — it'll be
distracting for both you and
person you're speaking to.
Wear a daytime
appropriate
perfume
Make sure its light and
not overpowering.
Have the right
skirt length
If you can see too
much thigh when you're
sitting with your legs
crossed, it's too short.
Blazer it up
Combine with smart
trousers or a pencil skirt
- you can't go wrong.
Dress this look up or
down as needed.
Keep jewellery
simple
A non-distracting,
but unusual piece of
jewellery can help you
stand out in a good way.
Wear functional
shoes
A low-heeled,
closed toe pump is a
fail safe option.
When you're in a high-pressure environment,
dressing to impress is more crucial than ever.
Next time you're putting effort into your slides,
don't forget to put effort into your style as well.
Sources
g Essential Fashion TIPS for Businessmen — askmen.com
What NOT to Wear At a Negotiation — everything-pr.com
Professional Dress Mistakes on International Business Trips - executive-impressions.com
Ten-Step GQ Guide Ta Nailing Office Style — gq.com
The Reuters/lpas Workplace Attire Poll - ipsos-na.com
Small Business Attire for Wamen — womeninbusiness.about.com
Eblin, S The Next Level. Davies-Black Publishing.
034SP.COM
rsvlts.com