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Enhancing Your Image at Work
Does the phrase “image is everything” ring true in today’s workplace? Absolutely. Your
image speaks volumes not only about the strength of your skills, but also your overall
commitment to work and your ethics. It reflects directly back on your boss, your company,
and everyone with whom you work. But what counts the most in shaping your image? And
whose impressions should concern you?
In previous years, image revolved around how you “carried” yourself at work. Dressing
professionally and always looking sharp garnered respect and admiration. Managers
recognized people with professional images by putting them in roles that involved heavy
contact with clients and vendors.
In today’s business environment, a polished and professional appearance is still
important. But image now involves much more. It also includes how effectively you
communicate, how well you work with others and whether you own up to mistakes. In a
nutshell, image represents everything about your commitment to work. Each of your
interactions and communications shapes your professional image.
Does the phrase “image is everything” ring true in today’s workplace? Absolutely. Your
image speaks volumes not only about the strength of your skills, but also your overall
commitment to work and your ethics. It reflects directly back on your boss, your company,
and everyone with whom you work. But what counts the most in shaping your image? And
whose impressions should concern you?
In previous years, image revolved around how you “carried” yourself at work. Dressing
professionally and always looking sharp garnered respect and admiration. Managers
recognized people with professional images by putting them in roles that involved heavy
contact with clients and vendors.
In today’s business environment, a polished and professional appearance is still
important. But image now involves much more. It also includes how effectively you
communicate, how well you work with others and whether you own up to mistakes. In a
nutshell, image represents everything about your commitment to work. Each of your
interactions and communications shapes your professional image.
STEP BY STEP: YOUR IMAGE MAKEOVER
Enhance your image through the following:
· Ask for feedback — What image do others have of you? If you’re not sure, ask a few
people. Extend the list beyond close family and friends — make sure you consult people
who will be honest in their assessments. You may be surprised by what you hear. The
information should provide direction for your image-building efforts.
· Check your desk — Does a messy desk indicate you’re a hard worker with a lot on
your plate? Or, does it reinforce the image of a hopelessly disorganized person? It
depends on whom you ask. At the very least, make sure important files are organized and
visible. That way, your colleagues will be able to find them when you’re out.
· Look at your inner circle — Who are your closest contacts at your firm? Build your
image with staff and managers in several departments, especially human resources, IT
and accounting. The reason? Your boss is likely to have heavy interaction with these
groups. Your solid relationships in these places could help with pull-through on tight
deadlines and special projects.
· Think about the rumor mill — Do you find delight in hearing the latest gossip? Be
careful — those who wallow in the rumor mill build a strong image, but it’s not a
professional one.
Enhance your image through the following:
· Ask for feedback — What image do others have of you? If you’re not sure, ask a few
people. Extend the list beyond close family and friends — make sure you consult people
who will be honest in their assessments. You may be surprised by what you hear. The
information should provide direction for your image-building efforts.
· Check your desk — Does a messy desk indicate you’re a hard worker with a lot on
your plate? Or, does it reinforce the image of a hopelessly disorganized person? It
depends on whom you ask. At the very least, make sure important files are organized and
visible. That way, your colleagues will be able to find them when you’re out.
· Look at your inner circle — Who are your closest contacts at your firm? Build your
image with staff and managers in several departments, especially human resources, IT
and accounting. The reason? Your boss is likely to have heavy interaction with these
groups. Your solid relationships in these places could help with pull-through on tight
deadlines and special projects.
· Think about the rumor mill — Do you find delight in hearing the latest gossip? Be
careful — those who wallow in the rumor mill build a strong image, but it’s not a
professional one.