- Short to Medium length is what you must go for.
- It is a serious no-no for flashy neon nail polish even though they are the latest fashion these days. Choose subtle pastels or a French manicure.
- Leaving them natural as well is perfect.
- Keep them clean.
Gentlemen.
Of course you wont be asked to do a french manicure, but a minimum maintenance of those manly fingers are needed. Simply, keep your nails well clipped and clean.
Hair
Ladies & Gentlemen.
- For long hair, it is advised to opt for simple hair-dos - poney tail, a bun or plaits.
- If your hair goes below your shoulder, you must consider tying them up.
- If they are short to medium make sure you comb them well.
- And of course, no unnatural (pink, blue, green, yellow or rainbow) colours please.
- Highlights are perfectly fine as long as they are the first thing you see as you walk in a room!
Make-up
Ladies.
- The best make up for work would be natural eye shadows with a thin line of eye liner.
- Go slow with the mascara.
- It is either the eyes or the lips. Not both. So if you have colours on your lids, have a natural gloss on your lips and vise versa.
- Red and pink lipsticks are okay as long as your eye make up is subtle.
Gentlemen:
Stop at moisturising cream or BB cream please. (lol!)
Beard
Nowadays the "no-shave November" seems to be going on throughout the year. At work though, it is better you opt from clean shaven to stubble long. Not only it looks clean and neat, it also adds a touch of style to your professional look.
2
your body language
your body language
Body language is all about the way you walk, you sit, you use your hands.
- Sitting posture during a meeting for instance, would be straight and composed.
- Avoid hanging on the sides of the chair.
- Avoid crossing your arms as it sends the message that you are not open for discussion.
- Avoid nibbling on your nails.
- Avoid picking your nose. (yes there are people who do that!)
- Avoid picking your ears. (and this too!)
- Maintain eye contact but don't stare!
- Your handshake must be firm, and not like that favorite jelly you love eating.
- Walk as if there are stacks of books on top of your head.
- Avoid the gangster or swag démarche.
- Lastly. we all speak with our hands. Well most of us do. However, try keeping them minimal.
3
the language you use
the language you use
A professional language would mean to speak without the use of slangs.
- Say Thank you, Please, You are welcome.
- Say Pardon me or Beg your pardon?
- Use Sir, Madame, Miss as much as you an in contexts where you are not too familiar with the person.
- Not everyone will understand your genius terminologies. Thus keep your descriptions simple.
- Please! Avoid foul language or swear words.
- Speak with respect and politeness. It is free.
- Above all, do more listening than talking.
4
watch what you wear
watch what you wear
This is probably my favorite part!
Ladies:
- Avoid deep cuts that reveal too much cleavage.
- Micro mini or mini skirts are a big no-no.
- Knee length or pencil cuts are in and better looking.
- Make sure your trousers are not too tight and revealing.
- No jeans please. Unless it is casual Friday.
- Avoid those flashy neon colours. Instead add a dash of subtle or fast colours.
- Add a scarf or a blazer to finish your look.
- Avoid hoops and cuffs. Wear one significant accessory with the rest discreet. Either the earring, the bracelet or the ring. But not all three together as it looks bulky.
- Opt for black, brown, off white, navy blue, marroon or nude shoes. Avoid pink, red, orange, animal prints and flowers.
- Heels can range from flats to maximum 3.5 inches.
Gentlemen:
- Well-ironed shirts and blazers.
- Ties - It's OK to be funny, let's avoid being vulgar.
- Yes today's fashion is about wearing shirts of different colours, but avoid the flashy colours.
- Trousers please, no jeans. Unless it is casual Friday.
- Don't forget your belt, it adds a touch of style.
- No trainers, sketches, sneakers, converse, timberlands or cowboy boots, but wear only formal shoes!
- Keep your shoes clean and well polished. Wear them with socks!
5
facial expressions are important
facial expressions are important
You may not realise, but we wear so many different facial expressions throughout the day. However we must control them in front of our clients and our hierarchy.
- Avoid frowning as it gives an angry look.
- Avoid having a sulky face.
- And of course, smile as much as you can!
and always remember...
We all want to be fashionable, and we can be that at work too. However always remember not to overdo. Adopt an elegant and professional look. Have a sneak at pinterest for best ideas!
If you have a uniform, respect it. Accessorise it well and wear it with the right shoes.
Too much make up can spoil your look, but no make up either can give you a sullen one. Make sure you look fresh by using some BB cream or face powder if you do not like makeup.
Check your body odour. This is a major problem in many organisations. Always carry a body spray with you. If you sweat a lot, don't hesitate to bring along a spare shirt or blouse.
If you have a uniform, respect it. Accessorise it well and wear it with the right shoes.
Too much make up can spoil your look, but no make up either can give you a sullen one. Make sure you look fresh by using some BB cream or face powder if you do not like makeup.
Check your body odour. This is a major problem in many organisations. Always carry a body spray with you. If you sweat a lot, don't hesitate to bring along a spare shirt or blouse.
You are the ambassador of your organisation. Whether or not you wear a uniform, you are a member of that family. Therefore you constantly represent that firm. You project an image and therefore create an impression and a reputation. Watch out your behaviour and your attitude when you deal with the public.
Know the history and background of your company as much as you can. Keep updated with what is going on and show that you care.