You spend so much time working. Isn’t it worth the effort to look your best? Looking and feeling great will boost your confidence and perhaps your productivity, too.
Today, it’s pretty easy to point out a lawyer, banker, barista or digital artist based on how they’re dressed. Some co-workers are focused on being on trend and up with the latest fashion, while others are less concerned with their look. No matter where you fall in this spectrum, it’s important to at least think about how you want to showcase your personal brand in the office. Here are seven ways to help you look your best at work.
Have a good skincare routine
Office lighting can be draining to skin tones and accentuate dark circles. If that’s the case where you work, then simply accept it. At the very least, you know everyone in your office is in the same boat.
What can really help is creating a good skincare regimen to develop flawless, healthy-looking skin. Remember to cleanse your face morning and night, and invest in a quality face mask for midweek use to keep your skin looking fresh.
Take a break
It’s likely you won’t look your best at work if you spend all day trapped indoors. Follow the golden skincare rule of wearing sunblock, and try to get outside for a short break. And, no, popping out for a cigarette does not count. A walk around the block can make a world of difference to your skin.
Get up and move
If you have no time to take a break, then fitness expert Samantha Clayton recommends stepping away from your email and walking over to a colleague’s desk instead. She encourages the movement, and I encourage the face-to-face interaction.
That’s not all: Talking, laughing and gesturing will make you seem more approachable among your colleagues and stop you from blending in with the scenery.
Look away from the computer
Staring at a computer monitor for hours does not help us look our best at the office. Do yourself a favor, regularly look away from your monitor and you’ll benefit your eyes and your work.
Take care of your hands
I cannot stress enough the importance of moisturizing. Keep some hand moisturizer at your desk and remember to use it.
If you don’t like the feel of greasy hands, then try this technique: squirt a little moisturizer onto the back of one hand and use the back of your other hand to rub in the hand cream. With this method, you’ll avoid getting moisturizer across your keyboard, mouse and phone.
Stay hydrated
Check your office policy and see if you’re allowed to use a mini humidifier. A humidifier will help combat dry air, which is a common side effect of constant air conditioning. If bringing in electrical appliances is a no-no, take a low-tech approach and remember to drink water throughout the day to stay hydrated from the inside out.
Dress right
Whether you have a specific office dress code or you can relax with a more casual look, make sure you’re always comfortable. If you have straps digging in or if you can’t walk in those shoes, then choose another outfit. No matter how good an outfit looks when you first put it on, you won’t look your best at work if
you’re distracted and uncomfortable all day.
Ditch anything that’s worn out. This one can be hard if you love a certain item, but wearing something that’s frayed or has seen better days isn’t going to help you make a great impression. You don’t need to break the bank to look your best at work, but keep your clothes clean, ironed and neat.