This week I am beginning a series on image. Everything we say or do or any place we show up physically or virtually adds or detracts from the image we want to leave. Many movie stars are masters at managing their image (Angelina Jolie) and, of course, many… are not (Paris Hilton, Mel Gibson). Our series will be fun, sometimes funny, occasionally insulting and will take shape as we go.
This past week we all learned about the test Hewlett-Packard Co.’s employees are suggested to take before taking action on anything. It is suggested that they consider this: “Before I make a decision, I consider how it would look in a news story.” I have a similar test I ask people to take. “Before you put anything in an email, make sure you would be OK with it printed on a large billboard on the biggest highway in your city.”
To manage your image, you first must know the image you want to present. If you are Barack Obama, your image is very different from someone like Madonna. Our series will start with an exercise to get you and your team to define the image you want to present and then we’ll talk about how to manage that image.
Currently, our series is scheduled cover the following topics:
- The Brand of YOU
- The Virtual Image
- Physical Appearance
- Communication
- Etiquette/Conduct
If you are recently out of college, this series can be the biggest gift your career can ever get. A bad image limits your possibilities severely. It’s an ugly truth, but it’s the truth. Presenting the right image will remove a huge barrier and allow employers, clients or recruiters to see the many wonderful talents you have. A bad image will keep you out of the conversation.
Stay with us on this series, challenge me and suggest other categories. This is a big topic and one of the most important factors contributing to your success. Thanks for joining us.
Meeting to Win will be publishing a sales team meeting series on this topic in Oct 2010, also. Subscribe now and don’t miss any opportunity to give your team a competitive advantage this year.
Tags: professional image
