CTSO 2 - Professional Appearance [LESSON]

Professional Appearance

Introduction

Your first impression is always a lasting impression. You may have heard the phrases below:

  • “You never get a second chance to make a first impression.”
  • “Be the kind of person you want to meet.”
  • “People will see you as you present yourself. Learn to present yourself well.”
  • “Dress for the job you want, not the job you have.”
  • “Your first impression is always a lasting impression.”

There is significant meaning behind each of these phrases. Whether in a professional or social context, a positive professional image is very important in obtaining success. In this lesson we will take a look at a number of elements in building and maintaining a professional image.

How You Present Yourself Matters Too

Professional appearance is not just the physical appearance. There are a number of personal traits that go into making a professional image. These would include how you dress, how you carry yourself, your body language, your communication – verbal and nonverbal, among a number of other elements involved in how you present yourself. Whether you are applying for your first job, making an important presentation for your company, seeking your first promotion on a job, or moving into a different career altogether, how you present yourself can make all the difference in your success.

In presenting a professional image, you must first have confidence in yourself. Being confident reflects poise and assertiveness. You use tact and persuasiveness in making a statement, not by imposing your opinion on others. Nonverbal communication also plays a significant role in communicating for success. Body language can be a powerful tool, positively or negatively. You also communicate through the use of your voice and environmental cues. Take a look at the graphic below for additional points on each:

Types of Nonverbal Communication Voice - pitch, range and inflection, volume, quality and tone, duration rate & tempo, pause and silence, laughter, vocalizations. Body talk - dress and grooming, posture, muscular tone and tension, facial communication, eye communication, your entry and exit, grammar Environmental clues - space territory touch, time, artifacts, jewelry, color, fragrance, organization 

Now, click here to download a reading assignment - Presenting a Professional Appearance through Communication. Links to an external site.

Image of FBLA suit Appearance and CTSO

Appearance also plays an important role when involved in a CTSO. FBLA, TSA, and Skills USA members should always be mindful of and develop an awareness of the image their appearance projects. CTSO members are expected to uphold a professional image. One of the primary goals of any CTSO is to prepare its members for the business world. Appropriate attire is expected at all times during conferences and competitive events. Take a look at the National Dress Code for FBLA, Skills USA, and TSA by clicking on the links below.

Click here to download and read the national dress code for FBLA-PBL. Links to an external site.

Click here to view the national dress code for Skills USA Links to an external site.

Click here and read to national dress ocde for TSA Links to an external site.

Review

Review what you've learned by completing the activity below.


Takeaway and Sendoff

What is your main takeaway? At this point, you have gained a better understanding of what it means to portray a professional appearance. As you see, it is not just about what you wear, but also how you present yourself. Professional appearance involves effective visual delivery, effective verbal communication skills, and effective nonverbal communication skills. Practice of these skills can begin now through your involvement with a CTSO and carry on through your life as you move into your chosen career field.  

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