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Do you have big dreams of becoming a doctor, lawyer, scientist, architect, or another specialized professional? When you’re in line to grab one of the most sought-after professions in the country, you must have what it takes to stand out from the competition.
Starting from the moment you begin college, there will be thousands pushing for the same degrees and gunning for positions with the industry’s top organizations. Outside of having a good academic profile and professional experience, you’ll rely a lot on your personality and style to get you to the top.
First Impressions and Networking
Getting to the top is a combination of what you know AND who you know. Not only will it be necessary for you to excel in your educational courses and internships, but you will also need to be good at networking and making lasting impressions. From prestigious college alumni and social gatherings to career events and job interviews, you’ll be connecting with others within your profession or industry of interest.
It will essentially be your responsibility to get to know these people and show them why you belong in this chosen field. They could potentially become your colleagues, mentors, investors, clients, or employers, so a great impression will take you far. Being a good conversationalist helps, but before you ever utter a word, one of the first things they’ll see are your clothes. You don’t need to go bankrupt on shopping for a new wardrobe as you can find great deals on casual wear and trendy plus size clothing for women online at Perfectly Priscilla.
Not sure what to wear when? Below, are a few suggestions to help you out.
Dressing in College
The college campus atmosphere seen on tv and in person gives off a laid-back vibe when it comes to the dress code. Though you’re free to wear just about whatever you’d like, when you’re going to school for professions in business and computer technology or neuroscience and architecture, you’ll want to find a happy balance.
Instead of being tempted to throw on the typical college sweats and running shoes or rugged jeans and tee shirts, try to keep your style casual.
You don’t need to look like the professor or be dressed as if you’re going to a business meeting, but you want to look presentable at all times. Crisp jeans and polo shirts or button up collar shirts paired with a nice pair of casual loafers are great choices for men in college. Jeans and cardigans, casual seasonal dresses (appropriate length), or slacks and blouses are good options for women in college. Such wardrobe choices allow you to be ready to sit through a long lecture or participate in a job fair or career event without having to change.
Dressing For the Job Hunt/Interviews
Once you near the end of your degree program, it is not uncommon to begin using the school’s resources and some of your own avenues to find a decent paying job. As the job market continues to be packed with eligible candidates your first impression will be likely all you have to seal the deal.
When going to job fairs, student resource centers, or reaching out to companies about current openings it is imperative to dress appropriately. While looking for jobs, dressing business casual is fine. A pair of slacks, dress shoes, a button up shirt, and a pullover vest would be recommended for the guys while the ladies can wear a dress with a blazer or cardigan.
If you’re actually going for an interview you’ll need to step it up a bit more. Guys will need to wear a suit and tie while ladies too can wear a dress suit or a pencil skirt and blouse with a pair of pumps.
Dressing In the Office/Field
Once you’ve been successful in landing a job, dressing for success becomes important. As you’re working in a prestigious and professional field, you’re held to a different standard. Unless your company says otherwise, keeping your wardrobe corporate and business casual are recommended.
You can mix up the suit and tie, slacks and sweaters based on what will be going on for the day. If you’re in meetings or plan on dealing with your clients dressing professionally may be advised. However, if you’re just catching up on paperwork or don’t plan on interacting too much, you may want to keep it casual.
You may not have realized it, but the way you dress says a lot about who you are and how you wish to be respected and portrayed by others. When you’re trying to work your way towards a fast-paced, in-demand, professional career, it is necessary to dress the part. As others interact with you and get to know you from the classroom to the workplace, it is by far one of the first things they’ll remember about you.
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This is a featured post by site supporter Anne Davis
Photo: Getty Images