How to Create a New Personal Business Image
- 1). Identify the new image that you desire. Write down the character traits and abilities you wish to portray to others, whether you possess them or not. For example, if you strive to a hardworking Regional Manager (even if you don't hold the title just yet) name the qualities that this person should possess. Seeing the traits visually will make it will be easier to materialize them.
- 2). Consider your surroundings. Anticipate how other professionals expect you to act, and how they already perceive you. Make sure your desired image fits in with the culture and audience, or else it will be rejected. For example, no matter how much you want to appear like a CEO, if you work in an art gallery, it would not be appropriate or accepted.
- 3). Look the part. Buy clothing that suits your new image. For example, if you want to appear like a CEO commit yourself to wearing conservative business attire. While it takes more than a new outfit to create a new image, your outer appearance is the very first thing people see and base impressions off of.
- 4). Take action. Create a new website to highlight your new characteristics, position, or goals. Revamp your business card to match this image. Send out an email to your contacts to inform them of your progress.
- 5). Think strategically. Non-verbal cues, such as physical appearance and poise, often form first impressions. A strong handshake, for example, is an essential sign of authority. Verbalizations, such as rate of speech and tone of voice, have the power to affirm and disconfirm previous notions. Your overall performance, or the way you act, will solidify your image.
- 6). Observe your efforts. Consistently monitor your behavior and how those around you respond to it. Hold an open forum meeting to give others a chance to respond to the business changes. Make sure that your actions, and the reactions of others, align with your initial goal.
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