First impressions are made by others within the first three minutes of meeting you

The better you are dressed, the more confidence you will feel and exude

How you’re dressed sets the tone of the meeting/interaction with colleagues etc

Apparent level of sophistication Color of tie, shoes, dress Well-groomed appearance Overall attractiveness Non-verbal signals Apparent level of self-confidence

Your appearance plays a supporting role in any meeting/conference/workplace

Your appearance can convey strong feelings of trust to your colleagues and boss

Your appearance can convey a sense of self-confidence, dependability and professionalism.

Your appearance can determine how people you meet will react to you.

Dark to medium range blues Navy Blue – respected by all socio-

economic levels Gray Camel/Beige Pastel shades Dark Brown Rust

Neatly ironed Shirt and Trousers for men/Suits in winters or at official engagements.

Salwar Kameez/Saree/Trousers and shirts for women.

Minimal jewelry, cologne and makeup Leather shoes for men; closed-toe

sandals for women Even if it is a Friday dressing

environment, be smart Be fully buttoned (some people leave

one more button undone)

Hair – clean and neat Details – no missing buttons, lint or tags Hands – clean fingernails Cloth Fit – clean, pressed and proper fit Smell – little or no cologne; no cigarette

odor Breath – fresh, clean breath; use a

breath mint, if needed, before a meeting and after official lunch/dinners.

Shoes – never lighter than the hem of your trousers/dress.

Belts – quality leather, which can hold the cloth in place.

Bags – Smart Leather bags/haversacks Jewelry – minimal; business watch,

nothing flashy

Do’s Make frequent

eye contact Smile Take notes Smile Nod frequently Smile Keep you hands

out of your pocket

Don’tsSlouchCross you armsTap your feetClear your throat repeatedlyBite your lips or nails

Don’t be overdressed. See the workplace culture and dress appropriately.

Dress appropriately for official engagements and meetings. You convey respect to the person you are meeting.

Define your audience – clients, senior management, colleagues etc