Let’s say you are out at a senior day event. It’s not upscale, but it’s not down market either. Seniors who own homes, some who rent; regular people who are enjoying their golden years. There’s a big crowd, because everyone enjoys getting out for the day and seeing their friends. One of the speakers is well dressed, even sports a pocket handkerchief in his jacket pocket. You can just tell that he takes a lot of care with his appearance – he’s perfectly groomed, with monogrammed initials on his shirt and the best haircut in town. You can smell his aftershave if you get close up.
Another speaker isn’t quite so polished and poised, but you note that people are headed over to his table and chatting with him in a friendly and conversational way. He is not talking so much as listening. And while he is definitely business-appropriate, that “flash and dash” that the other speaker has is not quite his style.
Let’s consider the importance of knowing your audience.
An office meeting with clients demands that you and your office put on your best, most professional appearances. That means that the office is clear of clutter, there are neatly stacked supplies on the conference table or a nearby credenza – pads of paper, pens, etc. – and comfortable chairs. Need we mention that the paint and the carpet are in excellent condition?
If your client runs a big construction company and you are visiting him or her on the jobsite, you’re wearing appropriate footwear. A meeting in the office – you are wearing a suit. When an emergency requires a visit to a hospital or care center, you are still dressed as a professional. Even in the middle of the night, your jeans are clean and pressed and you put on a button down shirt, not the old band t-shirt your spouse has been after you to throw out for years.
We take care to dress ourselves and decorate our offices for two reasons. One is to be clothed and to reflect our personal tastes. But another reason is to communicate to the people we are coming into contact with. We want to make those around us comfortable, which is after all the essence of good manners.
Now this is not a slam on sartorial all-stars. You know who you are. But do consider your audience.
If you are dressed for the Royal Ascot racecourse to address a room of NASCAR fans, you’ve missed the mark. On the other hand, if you are speaking to a room of high net worth families and your jacket needed to go to the cleaners last month, you’re not doing yourself or your practice any favors.
Consider your audience and how you want them to think of you. Their first impression is under your control!