Conferences, Appearance, Image and Impact

Greetings!

Recently I had the opportunity to participate in a weekend conference. I was asked to be a speaker, sell my books as a vendor, and conduct a live airing of my internet show The Magnolia. I was delighted to do so.

When I arrived at 7:45am to get everything set up for the 8:30am opening of the conference, I saw name signs at the various vendor tables of banks, retail businesses, and major corporations. I thought to myself, this is going to be beneficial. Then I saw some of the people representing those companies in outfits that should have only been worn in the yard working in the dirt. People were dressed entirely too casual for a business setting and the impact was certainly not positive. Maybe they thought since it was Saturday they could get away with it. I thought at one point of the movie The Mask where Jim Carey yells out something like “Somebody please HELP me!” I could not believe they were wearing flip flops, t-shirts, and shorts.

When participating in a conference or convention, no matter the role, remember you are representing your company and you. Dress appropriately in your company logo attire making sure the items are pressed, slacks and a long sleeved shirt for men and long sleeved blouses or sweaters for women. Also remember that convention centers are usually cool so a sweater or jacket is in order.

Remember there will be plenty of other times to wear that yard outfit!

Your image is always showing.

Author: Nyda Bittmann-Neville is an image and branding doctor and helps clients to have a healthy performance in the areas of marketing, communication, image and branding. Contact her at [email protected] and check out the websites for more information at www.TNBGroup.com or www.NydaSpeaks.com