Boosting your professional image 

Boosting your professional image can be helpful for making a great first impression, but how can you make changes that last beyond this?

CREDIT: This is an edited version of an article that originally appeared on Indeed

Establishing a strong professional image helps individuals maintain positive workplace relationships and present themselves appropriately. Being mindful of how you dress, speak and behave around others is important when fulfilling your daily duties or when trying to advance into a new role. Here are some tips for creating a positive professional image.

Be mindful of first impressions

People form first impressions quickly, and these impressions can impact scenarios like job interviews and meetings with new clients. By being mindful of your appearance and conduct in these situations, you can project a more positive professional image. Here are three elements that can help with first impressions to consider when meeting a new professional contact or entering a new professional situation:

• Industry conventions: consider which behaviours and traits are common for a professional image in the relevant industry and how you can implement them in your own way. 
• Workplace image: think about how other people currently perceive your position at work and whether their impression aligns with your intentions.
• Target audience: this refers to the different interactions you have at a workplace, including conversations with colleagues, employers or clients.

Assess your communication style

To show professionalism when you interact with others, you can use certain verbal and nonverbal techniques. Depending on your comfort level, it may be helpful to sustain some eye contact and monitor the volume of your voice; you can also practice active listening during conversations, meaning you remain engaged when someone is talking, and reflect information back to them.

You may benefit from reviewing your written communication as well. For example, if others often ask clarifying questions about emails or messages you send, it may mean that your written communication lacks clarity. Considering how others may interpret your message can help you identify if your written communication lacks important information.

Consider what your clothes reflect about you

While it’s important to dress within your means, consider whether your everyday attire meets both written and unwritten rules about clothing in your workplace. Written rules may be guidelines in an employee handbook, while unwritten rules may include the size, colour or style of accessories and statement pieces. You can get a sense of unwritten rules by observing your colleagues and noting similarities in their dress styles. Once you understand these guidelines, implementing style choices you enjoy can increase your confidence, which may help you perform your job responsibilities successfully.

Use social media thoughtfully

Because of social media’s increased presence, it’s important to be mindful of the version of yourself you present online; even if your personal accounts aren’t publicly viewable, it’s good practice to assume that others can still share and view anything you post. Think about how your posts do or don’t match the professional image you’re cultivating at work. By being consistent about your image both in the workplace and online, you can avoid any potential missteps about how others perceive your attitude or behaviour.

Increase your time management skills

Remain punctual when attending meetings, presentations or other events. Arriving on time can convey a strong sense of professionalism, as it shows respect for your colleagues and their responsibilities. It’s helpful to prepare your meeting papers beforehand and to consider using a planner or scheduling app to organise events during the workday and record any tasks you agree to take on..

Find a mentor

If you can, find a colleague or supervisor who can help you learn how to navigate and maintain professional relationships. 

Remain positive

Approach new situations in the workplace optimistically and try to project a warm and confident professional image in all situations. A new client or colleague may appreciate a kind action and you can try to always greet people with enthusiasm and a steady handshake. 

Be accountable

Assume responsibility for your actions to show that you can follow up with others. This shows integrity and a desire to improve your conduct. If a situation ever has unexpected results, take some time to reflect on your actions and strategies for solving issues more efficiently in the future. 

Strengthen your emotional intelligence

Emotional intelligence involves the ability to perceive the moods of others and alter your behaviour accordingly. To enhance your professional image, it may be helpful to learn the priorities and motivations of others – for example, if a colleague expresses concern about a work project, you can reassure them of their abilities and ask strategic questions so you both can set achievable goals together.

Attend networking events

Attend a networking event, like a workshop or seminar, to develop more industry connections, which may help you maintain a positive reputation. When meeting a new peer, learn their name and ask relevant questions about their life and work. It’s important to speak confidently about your own work, as this will convey your expertise and organisational skills. After an event reach out to any new contacts via email or professional social media, depending on the information you exchanged – this demonstrates that you value the connection and are open to assisting them professionally if an opportunity arises.