How to Dress for Presentation Success The Preuss School UCSD

Impressions Many of us have heard the popular saying, “You never get a second chance to… make a first impression.” How much time does it take for someone to determine their first impression? Studies show that people decide their first impression of someone within seconds.

First Impressions What are first impressions based on? Research shows that: 7% of first impressions are based on what we actually say, our words 38% of first impressions are based on how we speak, our tone of voice and mannerisms 55% of first impressions are visual, how we look

Visuals How we look is largely dependant on how we dress. Dressing professionally is critical to giving your best first impression when you present yourself. When you portray yourself well, you show respect for yourself and for those you are presenting to.

Formal vs. Professional What is the difference between formal attire and professional attire? Formal attire is what you would likely wear to a ceremonial event such as a wedding, a dance, or a birthday party. Professional attire is what you would wear when you are trying to present yourself in a scholastic or vocational environment such as a job interview or an academic presentation.

Appropriate For Males What are some recommendations of appropriate professional things for males to wear? A suit or blazer Nice fitted slacks A tie A tucked-in button-up shirt A conservative watch

Appropriate For Females What are some recommendations of appropriate professional things for females to wear? A suit or blazer Nice fitted slacks Nice skirt Button-up or full sweater Pantyhose or tights

Inappropriate For Males What are some recommendations of inappropriate professional things for males to wear? Jeans, shorts, t-shirts, or tennis shoes Wrinkled clothing Sagging pants Earrings Mohawks or unnatural hair colors

Inappropriate For Females What are some recommendations of inappropriate professional things for females to wear? Jeans, shorts, t-shirts, or tennis shoes Strapless shirts or strapless dresses Tight skirts or pants-slits Spiked heels, UGG-type Boots, or sandals Dark or flashy makeup

Examples Is it okay to wear an outfit that was borrowed? Yes, absolutely. Try to make sure that it isn’t too small or too big. We took example pictures of Preuss Seniors who earned high marks for the outfits they wore for their Senior Exhibitions:

Presenting You never know who will be listening to you present your exhibition. How you dress for a presentation can be different than how you will dress for work. Err on the side of caution and overdress rather then be underdressed. Do “motion checks” to make sure your outfit will stay in place and remain comfortable. Any Questions?

of wearing appropriate clothing to present your best self! As a future college student and professional, you want to get in the habit of wearing appropriate clothing to present your best self! Thank You