Brains and Beauty

Spring beckons with a softer feeling. The ruffle, the floral print and even the puffed sleeve are back. But how do you relate the new femininity to your everyday career wear? Consider this season a slim skirt that stops at the knees rather than above. This style is respectful, very professional and sexy all in one!

I recently attended a seminar on how to conduct an effective presentation and learned that body language and appearance have a profound impact on your effectiveness. We all like to look stylish and chic, but choice of clothing and too much razzle-dazzle can be a huge distraction.

There is nothing more annoying to an audience member than a speaker wearing noisy jewelry. If your bracelets jingle or your earrings jangle, don’t wear them during a presentation.

You should always be dressed at least one “notch” higher than your audience. If the meeting is casual, dress business casual. If the meeting is business casual, dress in full business attire. If you are speaking to a group, you are the expert on your topic; therefore be dressed as such.

If you are going to be speaking for any length of time, don’t wear your tallest, thinnest stiletto heals. Find something that’s appropriate but comfortable. If you’re constantly thinking about your feet when you’re speaking, something is wrong. I suggest flats if you can get away with it. But if you’re short like me, invest in a good pair of medium heels that are comfortable.

Image isn’t everything, but it certainly goes a long way. While the perfect attire cannot make a great presentation, the wrong attire can undoubtedly ruin one. Besides, the average adult attention span is only 7-20 minutes. They may not remember everything you said, but they will positively absolutely remember that great Michael Kors suit. Brains and beauty are a dangerous combination. Dress for success ladies and stay connected!