The Impact of Image WeCo Chat April 2016

True or False: Your Image Determines How People Respond to You People gather information from your image and treat you accordingly. If you aren’t getting the response you want from others, take a good look at your image. Small changes in your image can lead to big results.

True or False: Your Image is a Reflection of How You Feel About Yourself and Your Organization Your image makes a statement about how you feel about yourself, your job, and the organization you represent. Make sure your image fits the industry you are in and reflects the image of the company you work for.

It’s Not Fair! Image is Personal It isn’t right to judge people based on image Too much emphasis is placed on image People should be valued for who they are, not how they appear Not accepting people because of image is discriminating. It may not be fair, but it is a reality. Image is important!

A Matter of Perception Image extends beyond people and appearances Your perceptions influence every decision you make. Perceptions are not right or wrong, they are your perception.

What Judgements Do You Make Everyday Based On Image and Perception?

A Matter of Perception A positive image is the result of careful planning, preparation, and an honest assessment of your personal image.

What’s Your Image? Is your image helping or hurting you reach your objectives? The perception you have of yourself influences the perception others have of you. Your image and the way you present yourself can be an asset or a detriment. Defining your image will help you refine your image. You manage your thoughts, actions, and the image you project.

Defining Your Goals and Your Image What’s important to me? What do I need to change? Land the job Be trusted with more responsibility Be relied upon to interact with clients Be respected in my industry Be seen as a potential management candidate Do I dress and groom myself like others in the industry? Does my appearance, manner and presentation make other uncomfortable? Does how I look and act make me seem: Knowledgeable? Trust-worthy? In charge?

Simple Image Tweaks Wardrobe: Grooming: Attitude: Own basics “One good suit” theory Proper/neat accessories Shoes, handbags Simple jewelry Grooming: Be clean and neat Simple makeup Attitude: Everyday is a sunny day

Weight: A Sizeable Issue? 64 percent of American adults are overweight and 23 percent are considered obese. 47 percent of American workers surveyed believe that plus-size workers are being discriminated against in the workplace by their coworkers and supervisors. Individuals can be inaccurately accused of being lazy, lacking motivation, and discipline.

Weight: A Sizeable Issue? The key is to strive to be your best and present yourself professionally no matter what size you are. There is no perfect size. Size is not a reason to postpone looking or feeling your best.

Disability: Does it Matter? A disability people can perceive will always be part of a first impression. As with any element of image, assumptions will be made about your talents and abilities.

Disability: How do I make them see ME? Be prepared: Background Client needs Be well-groomed Dress slightly better than those around you Be cordial Friendly Proper Help them see YOU!

Image Defined Image: The impression that a person, group, or organization presents to the public. Everything and everyone has an image. What image do you want to project? What image do you need to project for your career?

Components of IMAGE IMPRESSION MOVEMENT ATTITUDE GROOMING ETIQUETTE

Beyond Appearances A smile and friendly appearance are as important as clothing choice. Perfection can harm an image—perfection can be threatening. Don’t limit yourself to areas that come easily to you. An effective image is well rounded.

Perils of a Negative Image Appearance matters: people may assume you don’t care about your work. Negative first impression Appear outdated Creates barriers Less-than-perfect reputation

Benefits of a Positive Image Productivity can be increased 20 percent or more by presenting an effective professional image. Positive attitude Competitive advantage Increase in advancement opportunities Correlates with higher earnings

Points to Remember You can control the image you project. Your image is who you are to other people. Take the time to create your image. You can create the image you want. Image goes beyond appearance. Image expectations will vary.

Great Image Resources from WeCo WeCo Training CTC Orientation & PD Training Staff Orientation and Monthly Staff Meeting segments Free Wardrobe Assistance Career Path Apparel Program Staff Team Apparel Program Ready for Success Other services in your area Leads & Directors Not certain? Ask them!

Questions or ideas?