A perfect appearance is particularly important for executives, as often not only their own career, but also the well-being of the entire company depends on it. In everyday business life, the success of the business often relies on the success of professional appearance. Both customers and employees associate - consciously or unconsciously - a confident appearance with a successful person. In contrast, a poor appearance weakens and undermines even the most competent person. Therefore, it is very difficult to reverse or turn the unconsciously perceived signals into a positive direction. There is no second chance for a first impression, as the saying goes.
The perfect appearance - possible or not?
Clothing, language, manners, and posture are relevant components of a successful appearance. It is important to master these skills, as they are essential for visible success. Negative effects manifest through speechlessness, stuttering, and physical tension. This can go so far that executives completely lose track in unexpected situations during a meeting or a presentation, or even can no longer respond to questions. In my coaching sessions, I have often heard of situations where the conversation atmosphere completely shifted during employee meetings and the manager or director reacted emotionally. When employees question a situation, leaders often feel personally attacked. He or she thinks that they are being doubted or that their professional competence is being questioned. This is a typical situation where the leader could not separate factual and personal criticism.
The perfect appearance and your external impact
Another aspect concerns awareness of one's external impact. In times when individuality and authenticity are valued as societal values, this does not mean that disregarding business rules or customs can be accepted. If this is confused, it can quickly have negative effects on business success. Especially in meetings with other entrepreneurs, it often turns out that the other party is much more conservative than one assumes.
Three quick steps to an improved appearance
Step 1: Questioning Question whether your appearance is perceived positively or negatively. Use common sense. One negative critique does not mean much. But if several people express negative opinions, then the feedback should be taken as an opportunity to consider changes. Step 2: Posture A good appearance requires good posture. Observe yourself in the mirror: Are you standing and walking upright? A confident posture during conversations and presentations conveys competence and self-assurance. With good, confident posture, you project this outwardly ideally. Step 3: Practice Becoming aware of oneself is an important step, but much can and should be practiced. Not just walking, standing, and sitting - everything should be practiced. Through practice, you develop an awareness for the perfect appearance. Paul Watzlawick's "We cannot not communicate" also applies to executives, as they "communicate" intentionally or unintentionally. It is helpful for executives to understand this effect and ideally be able to control it.
