Executive Resumes, Personal Branding & Executive Job Search

7 Areas of your Personal Branding (Image) that need your attention

Posted by Tyrone Norwood

May 18, 2018 7:00:00 AM

 

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In a great deal of in-person interviews, the way that you present yourself and the way you are received are as important as the accomplishments that you bring to the table. How do you brand yourself to ensure you make the best impression? Most people have developed their “brand” or image generically rather than intentionally creating a professional identity that may set you apart. Whether you’re looking to re-brand or upgrade your current image, your physical appearance plays a significant role. To help you out, here are a few important insights on how to create a professional brand:

1. Attire: When determining a dress code for your branding, it’s always best to review your current environment. Try to research the company culture. What are your colleagues typically wearing? A suit is the safest option, but here is where company culture comes into play. A pair of freshly pressed slacks and a collared shirt, for both men and women, could be exactly what you need to show that you are the perfect fit. In addition, be sure to complete your look with conservative jewelry and a pair of polished shoes.

2. Skin care: Clear, glowing skin quickly portrays your overall health. Enlist in the help of a skin care professional to help you determine your skin type and specialized needs in order to achieve your goals.

3. Grooming: Your grooming techniques can relay your personality and set you apart from the rest of the workforce. Whether you choose a full beard, 5 o’clock shadow, mustache, or decide to be beard-free, make sure that your facial hair is well-kept regardless of the style. Be sure stray hairs have been removed, beard length is tended to, and trim up with edges using a fresh razor.

4. Hair style: Your hair style can exude personal characteristics and play a large role in your overall style. Regardless of the style you select, be sure your hair is freshly washed and styled. When trying to choose a haircut and color for yourself, it’s always best to be conservative to avoid distracting leadership from your skills.

5. Makeup: When deciding your makeup, opt for a look that simply enhances your features as opposed to creating a look that requires heavy lipstick and fake eyelashes.

6. Manicured nails: Your nails might seem like a small detail that no one will notice but in fact it conveys your attention to detail. In order to communicate this great characteristic, be sure to clean and frequently trim your nails.

7. Oral Health: A smile can quickly disarm a colleague and show that you’re warm and welcoming to their ideas. Removing stains and making sure you have fresh breath will portray this.

When creating a personal brand identity, it’s key to remember that it doesn’t have to be generic. Creating a brand that is unique to you and your industry can help you increase your chances of landing a position. Do you have any unique branding tips that have personally helped you?

 

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Topics: personal branding, branded executive resume, interview, interview questions

Interview Attire Tips for Male and Female Executives

Posted by Tyrone Norwood

Dec 22, 2011 11:06:00 AM

Images businesssuit

This article was written, in part, by my Gen Y lifestyle resource, Matt. 

Fashion trends change, but the essence of style remains same: look your best, look current but not trendy, and wear what looks good on you. Interviewing has its own etiquette. If you are applying for an executive job, you need to be aware of the impact on the interviewer of what you wear.

The stats show that over 80% of a hiring authority's decision is based on you "look and sound!" So, make sure your clothes help you. You definitely don't want your clothes to become the reason you were not selected for further consideration.

Your Clothes Send a Message that the Employer Reads Closely

For Men:

1. Try to look sophisticated and sharp while also dressing conservatively. If you need help, try a personal shopper at one of the higher-end mall stores such as Nordstrom. Avoid anything too flashy or that attracts the wrong kind of attention, such as an attention-grabbing tie. 

2. Don’t worry too much about accessories or the newest suit trends, but make sure what you wear flatters you.

3. If you already have a good quality, conservative suit, consider buying a few shirts and some ties from a place like Armani or Brooks Brothers to liven up your wardrobe.

4. Avoid bright and flashy colors and stick to darks and solids.

5. Focus on fabric. Nice materials speak to your financial wellbeing as well as to your taste.

6. Wear clothes that have just come back from the cleaners. Alternatively, press and iron your clothing, making sure to iron a crease in your trousers.

7. Shoes should be clean and conservative. Whether you decide on loafers or dress shoes with pointed or round-toes, you want to keep your shoes polished and looking new. Johnston and Murphy is a resource for high-end men’s shoes. Zappos carries a full range of styles, and their great customer service reps may be able to give you pointers.

For Women:

1. Consider taking advantage of a personal shopper at the higher end mall stores, such as Nordstrom, to help you pick out a suit to wear to your interviews.

2. Some stores with up-to-date clothing that is conservative enough for an interview are: Talbots, Ann Taylor, Pendleton, and J Crew.

3. Avoid attire you might wear out clubbing as well as shirts that are too tight or necklines that are too low.

4. When looking for shoes, avoid high heels. Zappos offers plenty of shoes that will help you stay comfortable and look classy. The customer service is great too, so take advantage of their advice.

5. Wear suits, pantsuits or jacket and skirt, in a darker color, with a light-colored blouse and conservative jewelry. Go for a knee-length skirt.

Ultimately, the most important thing to remember is to make sure you look well dressed and current in terms of fashion, so that your appearance never becomes an issue and the interviewer can focus on what you say, not on what you wear.

For more detail on what to wear to your interview, click here.

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Topics: job search, job interview, interview, interview attire

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Tyrone Norwood