How To Put Your Style To Work

Everyone seems to be thinking twice before they make their next purchase. There's no denying it, there is so much talk about the doom and gloom of our global economic state. Even the die-hard fashionistas are holding on to their plastic cards before splurging on the most covetable pair of shoes, handbags or threads.

With this in mind, there's never been a better time for most of us to start thinking about securing a better future. With more and more companies downsizing, employee attrition is becoming the norm. Employee morale and attitudes are spiralling quickly as bad news saturates the press about people across all industries losing their jobs. And for those with their finger on the pulse, they are ensuring they sit tight and employing strategies to keep their jobs.

If you have been affected, are in between jobs or looking at a career transition - do not fear. Remember, every set back could be a blessing in disguise. So, before you advertise your most prized handbags on eBay, here are some tips and hints to consider to ensure you keep your job or fast-track your career transition.

• Everyone judges a book by its cover: Whether you like it or not, there's no denying the fact that we do it all the time. Make the first impression a positive one. If you wish to get promoted, find a job or even keep your current job - dressing the part may be the key and the one thing you can take charge right now.


• Establish yourself as a market leader: Always be in the know and keep up-to-date with what is happening in your industry. Make sure you upskill, do a short course, subscribe to free e-newsletters or attend networking functions. Ignorance is not an excuse, nor does it make you sound or look credible. Know who's who in your industry and stay in touch. The world is your oyster.


• Never burn your bridges: It's a small world, you just never know who might meet. You could potentially be talking to your future boss. Also, if you've ruffled other people's feathers, just a friendly reminder on the theory of six degrees of separation.


• Dream big, Aim High: This has been a personal mantra of mine for as long as I can remember. Never accept mediocrity. You need to see yourself as a product, with lots of positive attributes. Why would you want to settle for second best when you can be the best and have the best? Limited thinking can be immobilising, which will make you unhappy in the long term. If you're going to give something a go, give it your best.


• Dress for the job you want not the job you're in: Whether you have a competitive streak or not, one of the easiest ways to get a promotion is to dress the part. Studies have shown those well presented are more likely to be taken seriously. Come to work with make-up on, iron your clothes, polish your shoes, take note of your hygiene. Look the part from head-to- toe.


• You're a billboard: These days, if a small business or a company does not have a website, in a consumer's mind they do not exist at all. Remember you are your very best form of advertising - don't let an opportunity pass you by.


• Keep in touch: Attend networking activities specific to your industry. These days it's all about who you know. These individuals can help you get in touch with people faster than you can say, 'Manolo Blahnik in size 36 please'.


• A photo tells a story: Your profile picture on your Facebook, LinkedIn and other social networking sites are as equally important as your career experience. Recruiters and potential employers now use Google for researching and finding as much information about their future team before they even land a first interview. That itself can deter potential companies from hiring you. Have a neutral image and limit your settings.


• Make them want more: Don't get too desperate and don't act too desperate. Whilst it's always better to be in a job whilst making the transition this may not be the case for everyone. Remain calm in an interview and remember why you are the best for that position. Don't forget to do your research about the job and company.


• The devil wears Prada: You don't need to wear head-to-toe designer to get a promotion or land a job. As long as you are comfortable, you look neat and presentable then you're on your way to a brighter future. Oh, and a top resume, skills and excellent referees go a long way too.

Best of luck.

Annelies Gonzaga is the Founder and Personal Stylist at Statement (Image & Style). She has a genuine interest in helping people look and feel great. She understands the importance of personal branding having had over a decade experience in the marketing and advertising industry. To find out more about her services, visit http://www.statementstyle.com.au

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Annelies_Gonzaga