Looking the Part

Today I want to focus on something that I believe a lot of scientists don’t really consider. Our clothing!  

Now we scientists have a poor rap when it comes to perceptions on our fashion sense.  I realize this is unjustified, but we need to break this stereotype.  I do not expect everyone to strut as if we are on the cat walk in our designer togs (and let’s face it those high heels would be a laboratory safety nightmare), all I ask is that we wear suitable clothing which fits us well.  The number of times I have seen people wearing clothing which is either far too small, too big or just unsuitable for the event is unbearable.  You are presumably trying to make a good impression and before you open your mouth people will have unconsciously appraised and judged your appearance, so let’s make sure you begin with a positive.  

I have seen a number of people come to interview in jeans.  That is a huge no for me.  Getting dressed up might not be your favourite past time, but it shows attention to detail and respect for your interviewer and the occasion.  Spend some time ensuring that your outfit portrays the correct image and that it fits you at this point in time.  A good tailor will always come in handy if items need to be adjusted.

But, it doesn’t end there.  What happens if you move away from the bench and take an office job?  You may actually be expected to look professional on a daily basis.  If you are thinking about this, you might want to begin slowly adding to your wardrobe to ensure that once you are ready to make the leap that you have the wardrobe to match.  I have found that usually when I want to buy clothing I can’t find anything I like, but when I am not looking the choice is amazing.  Therefore, I take the opportunity to add to my professional wardrobe whenever I see something which appeals. That also means that it not only portrays my “administrator” image, but that it also fits properly.  Through trial and error, I have discovered which shops work for me and which don’t.  

I had a meeting with Mary Mitchell (of the Mitchell Organization) a few months ago, and it really solidified my new approach to my work wardrobe.  I mentioned that I didn’t feel I was perceived as an administrator by some people who had known me while I was a Postdoc.  I always came to work in smart casual clothes which were work appropriate, but didn’t always wear makeup or make a huge effort on my hair.  It was hard to break the habit of not making that much effort on my appearance like I used to do for lab.  

In the politest way imaginable, Mary mentioned that I should not only look suitable for my new role, but potentially for the job I would like in the future.  Also, that I should look as polished and professional as possible, which means wearing makeup everyday and doing my hair (I haven’t gone so far as my nails – yet!!).  She went even further by saying that when I tie my hair back I look more mature and command more respect!  As you might expect from that day on I have taken the time to improve my appearance for work.  

Yes, it does take a little longer in the morning to get ready, but I believe the benefits are worth it.  With my new wardrobe and polished appearance, my colleagues have not only noticed, but some have changed the way they treat me.  I feel that I am given more respect and, in turn, that makes me feel more appreciated.  As Mary says, mastering etiquette and professionalism will ultimately lead to a successful career.  In only a few months, with a couple of changes, I am already feeling more confident at work.  I believe that this can work for everyone, whether it is for a job you currently have or one you want.  I had been wondering about making some changes, but it wasn’t until an expert pointed out I should that I actually did.  

Now, I know some people will think that wearing professional clothing might be bland and boring, but that just isn’t correct.  There are many ways you can still express your individuality – whether with colourful clothing, bold accessories or stylish hair.  I love bright colours and am often in pinks, blues, reds, purples – even oranges and yellows.  I just ensure that I only have one bright item at a time (or you could end up looking like a clown).  

If you aren’t sure what colours suit your complexion, there are websites and books out there which can help you (simply Google “what colours suit my skin tone”).  I had help putting together my new wardrobe from a stylish friend who enjoys shopping.  It made the experience fun and less stressful.  It also meant I tried on colours and styles I would not usually try and found that they actually worked.  If you hate shopping, this may be the quickest and least painful solution.  Of course, if you are going to all this effort, you will also need to ensure you have professional shoes to match.  I am told by Mary that the new way for guys to express themselves is with fun socks, so just ensure they are in suitable foot wear.  I will admit I was excited to wear cute shoes to work after over a decade of wearing sneakers!

Are you ready to grab a credit card and go shopping?!  I hope that you will seriously consider what you wear.  Whilst it is true you can be a genius wearing a garbage bag, in this increasingly corporate world people’s perceptions of you are important.  The clothes you wear give unconscious messages about you and how you function.  This is such an easy thing to fix if you feel it needs work.  This phrase still rings true – “You don’t get a second chance to make a first impression,” so let’s make that impression as good as it could possibly be.