Know Your Industry

When you are entering a job career or job industry, there are certain rules you will need to follow. These rules also known as policies and procedures guide and direct your productivity for the company you work for. Productivity is the most important factor in any industry. You are a part of that productivity. Your work contributes to that productivity.

In order for you to be successful, you must be aware of what is expected of you.  What time of industry are you involved in?  Healthcare, costumer service, oil and gas, or law?  What are the expectations of you to stay in that industry?  Many work several years to obtain a degree or certification.  Others work many years in the same industry and as a dedicated employee he or she have rose through the ranks.  And then there are others who both obtained degrees and certifications as well as experience.  Either way, you know firsthand what is expected of you as a member of the productivity team. 

However, many times individuals forget one thing that can help them improve his or her standing in his or her industry. It is his or her appearance.  This is not about keeping up appearances, it is showing your work community, your industry, who you are and why they should take notice!

Before you say it…People’s lives are busy.  I get it. I have been there and done that.  There have been many times where I just do not feel like getting dressed up for work.  There are times when I do not feel like pulling out the iron to iron my clothes before work.  But, we have to persist and do the things to improve our appearance.  

So why is this important?  Well, when you look good, you feel good. It is as simple as that.  Remember back when you get a hair cut and how giddy you feel after? When my cocker spaniels spend a day at the doggie spa getting bathed and groomed, they come out of the doggy spa like they are the cat’s meow.  They literally strut out from behind the groomer’s counter.  They have huge smiles on their faces.  Not gonna lie, I may have strut a time or two after getting my hair trimmed, had a facial, or had my nails and toes done. 

Spend that quality time tending to your physical needs because it can do wonders to your psyche.  You do not have spend hundreds of dollars to pamper yourself.  You can spend some quality spa time at home. There are tons at-home products you can use to unwind. I have listed my favorites below.

Besides grooming practices, you should look through your clothes to see if your closet needs an update.  Are there pieces that are frayed, discolored, or faded, buttons are falling off, or they are too big or too small?  Wearing clothes that have a stain or are torn does not help enhance your work appearance.  Feel free to wear those kinds of clothes around the house! But, for work, you should look presentable and, like they say, you should dress for the job you want.  Next time you put something on for work, do a quick inventory of the quality of what you are wearing.  And if you can fix clothes that are damage, do so!  Nothing says creativity like repurposing your clothes.  Maybe you can change your once-favorite blouse into your new favorite scarf!  Be creative!!

Lastly, you should not only dress professionally but also consider what type of office or location you are working at.  Does your office allow you to wear heels?  Is it appropriate to wear 4-inch or higher heels?  How will your feet feel at the end of an 8-hour day?  Does your industry require you to wear minimal jewelry due to possible hazards? Perhaps where stud earrings or wear a replacement engagement or wedding ring or cover?  Think about your safety as well as your co-workers safety.  Think about comfort as well.  You want to be stylish and comfortable.  Do not let tight clothes or higher than normal shoes cause you discomfort so you can not do your job.  Remember, you are at your place of work to be a productive member of the team.  This is not a fashion show or the dance club (Unless that is your job, then please go forth and rock!). 

Just be mindful of what you do and what is required of you in terms of your appearance.  Many are satisfied in his or her current job position and that is wonderful! Others, are ready to advance to the next position.  Remember, your bosses are watching and are aware with how you present yourself.   You are making a statement even when you are not.  What do you want your appearance to say about you?