A recent article by CNBC, “3 Simple Ways to Become More Influential at Work…” discussed how emotional intelligence can help you get noticed.
The three ideas shared in the article were:
- Find a leverage point to be helpful so you’re noticed.
- Don’t treat relationships transactionally, which helps you form new connections.
- Support and share your own and others’ ideas.
I often share these three ways to stand out with clients but from a style perspective.
One way to stand out and be noticed in life or at work is to add color to your style. Adding color to your wardrobe can be a leverage point to help you stand out. Research suggests that when you place black next to a bright color, people notice the bright color first due to its vividness and contrast with the darker color. In addition, black, can have a numbing effect versus a bright color that tends to evoke emotions like happiness, growth, and excitement.
Not only can wearing more colors help you stand out, but research shows specific colors can affect your moods. An article in Mental Health America shared that exposure to bright, cheery colors (red, orange, yellow) stimulated energy and happiness, while cool, subdued colors (blue, green, purple) had a soothing and calming effect.
Another way to stand out with style is to take time to find clothes that fit you, your personality, and your style. When you do this it will help you stand out and show up authentically. Let go of what you think you should look like, stop trying to fit into the corporate box and instead, show up as YOU. When you unlock your personal style, you give yourself permission to let go of the old version of you and who you think you’re supposed to be, to propel yourself to the next level. When you wear what everyone else wears, it’s easy to blend in and be invisible. On the other hand, when you take the time to show up authentically, you may be surprised by how easy it is to create new authentic connections.
The third way to stand out was to share your own ideas and the ideas of others. Research has found that when you have confidence, you are more likely to take risks, have better relationships, have a better self-image, help others, and give back.
Taking time to find clothes that fit the body you have now will likely help you find new confidence, which will help you to show up authentically and engage in genuine relationships. After working together, clients often share with me that they have more confidence, which gives them the confidence to speak up, raise their hands, share their ideas, close more deals, and more. Self-confidence and higher self-esteem have also been linked to higher overall earnings.
A Yale study done in 2014 showed how people dressed, suits versus sweats, impacted the subjects’ negotiating skills, sales skills, and critical thinking. First impressions take less than seven seconds; unlocking your style will elevate your image, inspire confidence, and drive success. If you are ready to attract the right clients, create deeper human connections, and become unforgettable, reach out. I am here to help.