A well-respected professional image is an important part of your career and can help you achieve a new level of self-confidence.
 

There are many factors that can contribute to your professional image. Everything from the way you dress to the way you communicate may send a message to employers, colleagues and clients.

It can also influence the way you feel about yourself. This can matter whether you’re interacting with others in person or remotely. 

Here, we'll explore how to develop and maintain a professional image in today's hybrid world.

Dress professionally

Traditionally, office dress codes were quite formal, with suits often being the norm. In recent years, however, business casual attire has become increasingly popular, with people wearing khakis, button-downs, dress pants and blouses. With more options acceptable, this can make deciding what to wear to work – and maintaining a professional image – challenging.

Several situations may present themselves in the office that would make a good impression important. Clients can drop in unannounced, or upper management may request impromptu meetings. So it’s important to always be dressed appropriately.

If you’re new to the office, check with Human Resources or your onboarding team to see what the dress-code policy is. And once you’re in the office, pay attention to the way your coworkers dress and follow the lead of someone who may be more familiar with the office expectations. Additionally, dressing like people in roles you hope to one day achieve may help you dress for the job you want.

Creating a professional image with the way you dress may help you be seen as someone who takes their job seriously, whether you’re working in person or remotely. 

Be mindful of body language 

While body language may not immediately come to mind when thinking about your professional image, it can be important. It’s a nonverbal cue that can help reinforce and emphasize what you’re trying to communicate, and it may impact how people perceive you in the workplace. What are some ways you might convey professional body language?

• Make eye contact and use proper posture to show you're engaged and interested in the conversation.
• Show interest by leaning in slightly and facing your body toward the speaker.
• Uncross your arms to signal that you’re relaxed and confident.

Being aware of your body language and using it to your advantage may help ensure your message is being delivered effectively. In addition to helping you communicate more clearly, it may help you convey a more professional image.

Show up on time

Timeliness matters. Showing up late for work or meetings can be seen as a sign of lack of respect for others’ time. Being punctual indicates that you’re focused and ready to get to work. It also conveys that you can be trusted and care about other people on your team. Arriving promptly shows your level of interest, which may increase your value as an employee and colleague.

What’s better than showing up on time? Showing up a few minutes early. This can give you a moment to reflect and focus. You can use this time to ensure you have all the materials you need or review any information that may help you in your meeting. This goes for virtual meetings too. Is your internet working properly? Do you have the correct link? Sitting in a virtual waiting room for a few minutes is time well spent if it means you are able to troubleshoot any connection issues before the meeting begins. 

Communicate effectively

There are several ways you can ensure you are communicating effectively. Written communication should be succinct, professional and always spell checked. Reading your work out loud may help you find grammatical errors or discover a more concise way to word things. When communicating orally, steer clear of slang words and personal topics. Do your best to avoid filling space with “ums,” “ahs” and “likes.”

But how do you know you’re using the right communication method? Consider your audience and message. If you want to communicate with several people, written communication through email may be best. If your topic is complex, a face-to-face meeting (in person or through video chat) may be better for a more efficient back-and-forth dialogue.

However you communicate, it should always be respectful. Respond promptly and clearly to emails. Don’t interrupt during face-to-face conversations and stay on topic. 

It’s also important to have empathy in any communication you may have. This means understanding other people's emotions and working out an appropriate response. Empathy helps you determine if a situation may need to be defused or supported and celebrated.

Collectively these tips may help you with your professional image. Working to improve in these areas may help set you up for success and give you a boost of confidence to set whatever goal you can imagine.
 

For more professional resources and tips, visit Strayer’s Career Center.