The people in the business professional slide
The people in the business professional slide are unquestionably competent. They appear to be meeting with potential clients or attending an important presentation. Their choice of clothing, the manner they interact with one another, and the way they carry themselves in the workplace all reflect their professionalism.
Men's Attire
Both men and women present an absolutely professional appearance with the right, useful, and well-maintained accessories. The men's suits come in muted colors like gray, navy, brown, and black. Their shirts are classic button-downs in shades of gray and white, which are appropriate colors for a business-working environment. Their suits have been completed with traditional silk ties presenting a fine design like stripes. Their ties are long enough and reach their belts. The men are wearing leather shoes, which are mostly brown, black, gray, and navy blue in color. The color of their ties is conservative and matches that of their shoes.
Women's Attire
The women are seen wearing pant pencil skirts and blouses. Others are having on tailored trousers. All the women wearing skirts have ensured that they reach the knee or below. The colors of their clothes are mostly traditional ones such as beige, black, white, and gray. The women's blouses are not too tight or transparent and they do not show cleavage. They seem to be wearing mostly closed-toed flat shoes or heels with an appropriate height for easy walking. A few are seen to wear pump shoes. The women have kept jewelry to a minimum and their makeup looks simple.
Professional Gestures and Movements
Both the men and women's gestures are open while their movements are relaxed as observed in the way they show their palms while speaking. They are seen to maintain eye contact as they communicate with each other. This signifies credibility and honesty. It would be unprofessional if the individuals were frowning and sat or stood with head bowed and hunched shoulders.
Personal Reflection and Connection
Important presentations, meeting new clients, job interviews in almost all career fields call for professionalism. However, the formalness of that appearance can differ depending on one's domain. (Carlsen & Willis, 2007) Formal attire may not be normal in some offices while in others "business professional" may be more tolerant. A business environment that is less formal may require tailored pants along with a button-up collared shirt. In such fields, a tie and a jacket are not necessary except for interviews. Nonetheless, conservative dressing and looking well-polished gives one confidence in future opportunities in their career.
Comfort is Key
Being a professional requires one to not only appear good but also comfortable. It would be embarrassing for one to be before people and realize that their pants are too loose or too tight or that their shoes are hurting their feet. Ladies are advised to avoid wearing very high heels that would make walking difficult.
Communication and Body Language
Professionalism in business calls for appropriate communication skills to match the look. One's body language, including hand gestures, eye contact, and the tone of voice, all display the message being conveyed. (Carlsen & Willis, 2007) An open and relaxed stance and a warm tone make one look more friendly and easy to approach. It is also important to take note of other people's nonverbal signals while conversing. In addition, exuding confidence during interaction can be mere eye contact, but it goes a long way in building one's professionalism.
Importance of Grooming and Professional Looks
Appropriate grooming and professional looks are significant to achieve not just respect but also a good impression in the working environment. (Carlsen & Willis, 2007) First impressions are important, and the manner of carrying oneself affects people one gets along with in the office. Lack of professionalism may result in a bad image and affect one's chance of displaying a good impression, consequently missing positive feedback from superiors and colleagues.
Reference
Carlsen, R. & Willis, D. (2007). Society for Information Technology & Teacher Education International Conference annual (1st ed.). Chesapeake, Va: Association for the Advancement of Computing in Education.
