You’re running a personal development and executive training company. You are always surprised by the diverse clientele that you serve. Many are senior executives but with problems with low self-esteem. The mastery of the English language challenges others. Some have problems speaking in front of people and making presentations, yet this is the very requirement of their jobs.
There are people who need anti-dandruff shampoo because they shed flakes all over the place. Your grooming program is one of your most in-demand programs. Many professionals still overlook the need for personal grooming.
Appearance Matters
Dressing at your best shouldn’t stop during your interview. If you become an employee, appearance is still considered important by both your colleagues and management. Some hip companies out there are more relaxed in terms of dress codes. It is part of their culture. But many companies are still conservative, and your job might hang in the balance if you don’t follow proper attire at work.
A report, however, suggests that there is a growing percentage of American companies that allow casual dress for employees daily and not just on Fridays. The jump reached 50% from 32% during the last five years. But remember, informal doesn’t mean “untidy” or “dirty” or “smelly.”
Elements of Personal Grooming
Personal development training programs emphasize that a good appearance is necessary regardless of your profession. You can be a sales executive, a digital marketing expert, or an entrepreneur. You still need to look clean and presentable. Here are other critical aspects of personal grooming:
- Clean up. Take a shower before going to work. That’s basic. Good hygiene is essential for you as well as your colleagues. If you come to the office smelling like dried saliva from your pillow, how do you expect anyone to have meetings with you? And it doesn’t stop with the shower. Pick the right clothes, fix your hair, and spend some time in the mirror. Make sure that you don’t look like you just literally rolled out of bed. “Good looks” are one of the critical elements of personal grooming.
- Oral hygiene. Yes, halitosis is a bad thing to have. If suddenly your colleagues are disengaging from a group conversation upon your arrival, you might have a case of bad breath. Consider if what you have is already something clinical and requiring medical attention. Oral hygiene also includes taking care of your teeth. If you’re a smoker, chances are your teeth are no longer that white. Visit your dentist regularly and ask for the proper treatment. Maintain a strict routine of brushing your teeth after every meal and rinsing with a medicated mouthwash.
- Body language. If your always hunched-back and your shoulders dropped most of the time, you are not sending a message of confidence and authority. And if you’re this way and you have power, it’s unlikely that you will be taken seriously. You will lose credibility. Maintaining physical fitness contributes to the achievement of the right posture. Spend time in the gym and eat properly.
Another critical component of personal grooming is manners or etiquette. “Please” will never cease to be a magic word. And so is “thank you” and “congratulations.” Manners still matter.