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Are You Aware of What You Wear? A Subtle Yet Powerful Presentation Tool
By Dawn E. Waldrop
Audiences connect with presenters with whom they feel most comfortable. But where does this comfort come from?
It comes from the energy you give off. As humans we get different energies from our attire, which affects our communication. Just as you feel the difference when you wear certain clothing, so does your audience.
What creates these subtle yet powerful differences?
An authentic image empowers you to be your best. Think about those days when you get dressed and feel great in your clothes. You feel confident, and people interact with you in a positive manner. Some people refer to these days as wearing a lucky outfit. When you feel most comfortable in your clothes you are at your presentation best. Now think about those days when you put on an article of clothing or accessory and only feel okay. You feel uncomfortable or out of sync. The truth is, you dont present well when youre uncomfortable. Your audience can sense your discomfort and they react accordingly. As you speak your audience is studying every detail about you. When your attire and accessories enhance your appearance the human eye goes directly to the face. That is exactly where you the presenter want them. Even if one item does not enhance you, that is what the audience remembers instead of your message.
Here are the Six Ss of subtle, yet powerful, ways to guarantee that your attire is working for you and not against you.
Sleeves
In every presentation situation wear long sleeves. Long sleeves communicate respect, authority and a higher level of professionalism. Observe how people interact with you when you wear short sleeves and then on days when you wear long sleeves. The difference is subtle yet powerful.
Surroundings
Dont be a wallflower. Call the facility and ask what color is the wall behind you where you will be speaking. Then make sure the color you choose to wear stands out and does not blend. If the walls are beige, do not wear beige.
Skirts
Women beware, the higher the stage, the shorter your skirt or dress will appear. The best length is mid-knee for short or medium height women. Tall women opt for hemline a couple of inches below the mid-knee.
Shoes
Your most important accessories are your shoes, yet people pay little attention to them. Make sure shoe color is the same color or a darker color than hemline of your pants or skirt. The audience eyes will remain on your feet when shoes are lighter than your hemline.
Style
Pay attention to how your clothes fit. Have them tailored to fit your unique body structure. Everyone is born with one arm and leg longer than the other. Without tailoring your audience will notice if your sleeves do not fit properly.
Silk Ties
100% silk is the best tie for a man. Men beware your ties come in varying lengths for different height men. Make sure the tip of the tie hits the middle of the belt buckle.
As a presenter, be aware that your attire does not shout distraction. This silent power speaks loud and clear. It is important to learn what does work best for you in color, style, texture and pattern. Then develop your attire around the industry you speak to and position level of the audience. This attire needs to project who you are. For example, if you present to businesses that deal with people on a personal level, such as finance, accounting, insurance, banking or real estate, then your attire will be more conservative compared to that of interior design or advertising. Your presentation image is based on perception. Perception is reality. By avoiding clothing distractions and wearing attire that complement you and your professional credentials, you will ensure your audience remembers your message and not what you wore. Learn
CREDITS Dawn Waldrop, National Speaker, Business Consultant and President of Best Impressions. She is author of Best Impressions How to Gain Professionalism, Promotion and Profit. For free articles visit www.best-impressions.com dwaldrop@best-impressions.com 888.577-BEST Purchase her book at www.best-impressions.com , www.amazon.com or www.barnesnoble.com
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