If you’re planning on giving a presentation or some other form of public speaking, you have to understand that before you can say a single word, what you’re wearing has already spoken for you. Whatever words you speak after are all heard within the framework of that first impression you made.
Do you know what your appearance is saying, or have you not given it much thought?
Too often, people tend to completely overlook this fact, and as a result they fail to take advantage of this competitive edge.
Here’s what I mean: If I’m presenting to a group of senior women in finance, then it behooves me to style myself as one of them. I’ll select wardrobe pieces that are well-made, and flatter my figure as well as my coloring. My hair will be styled, not just pulled back in a scrunchy. My shoes will be in good repair and make me feel both supported and empowered. And even if I showed up in the most expensive jeans, sneakers and a sweat shirt, it wouldn’t matter and they would not be inclined to take me seriously.
- Always check your outfit the day/night before you present, so you’ll have time to fix problems.
- Avoid the head-to-toe black look; it makes you blend in with everyone else (in NYC) at a time when you want to stand out. Try deep ruby, orange, canary yellow, soft pink, bright red etc. touches instead…a scarf, blouse, tie, belt, suspenders.
- Try not to get wrinkled…stand on the subway instead of sitting, take your jacket off and carry it, carry your blouse in a bag and change when you get to your venue.
When you’re presenting, think of it as “Show time” and not just another day at the office. Ideally, you’re going to entertain your audience as well as educate them, and that’s where you get maximum engagement.
And if it’s at all possible, get your cat to test it out.
