Appearing professional is just as much about how you look as it is about how you act. You may act like a boss and take charge when you need to, but no one will take you seriously if you don’t look the part. While it would be nice to live in a world where appearance doesn’t matter at all, that’s not the one we live in. Here, we’ll go over a few style mistakes that make you look unprofessional to help you avoid a workplace faux pas.
Not Following Dress Codes
You should take your office’s dress code very seriously; it’s in place for a reason. Whether you agree with it or not, sticking out because you wore something too casual is never a good thing. Stick to professional dress if that’s what the higher-ups expect of you. Failing to do this can make you seem needlessly confrontational or less of a team player.
Not Grooming Yourself
It’s not just about the clothes you wear when it comes to professional style. Your hair is a huge part of your overall appearance, and you need to manage it appropriately. Wild, unkempt hair can make you seem disheveled, so make sure to style it before you head out for the day. Tying up longer hair can also exude a more professional look. If you have facial hair, you should also trim that neatly to add to your look.
Wearing Poorly Fitting Clothing
Professional clothing is expensive, so it’s understandable if you don’t have an array to choose from in your home. However, if you’re entering a professional industry, you can’t simply wear hand-me-downs forever. Wearing poorly fitting clothing only succeeds in making you appear younger—and not in a good way. It makes you seem like you’re unable to dress yourself. Get at least one tailored suit, and you’ll be fine.
Wearing Too Many Accessories
A common style mistake that makes you look unprofessional is wearing too much extra accouterment in your outfit. Large earrings, ostentatious necklaces, and oversized rings are simply not professional. If you plan to wear accessories, it’s best to go for a subtler version of them. There’s nothing wrong with accessorizing, but being overly loud about it can ruin your whole professional aesthetic.
