Image Is Everything

• July 26th, 2007
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OK. There seems to be debate about what construes “professional attire.” I am sure most of the readers on these blogs are savvy. I just want to say my piece and get it out there. I have seen plenty of people wear really odd things as “business professional.” I’ll start by posting what is on Intouch:

“Is it true that Mary Kay has changed the professional attire guidelines for Company- sponsored events?”

As you know, Mary Kay Ash strongly believed that maintaining a professional image should always be a very important aspect of the Mary Kay business opportunity. As a result, she encouraged independent sales force members to always strive to look their best. Mary Kay knew that a person’s dress often determines a person’s attitude and behavior. Your customers will appreciate your professionalism and have great confidence in your ability to guide them in proper instruction concerning skin care and advice in the selection of color cosmetics. Today, we continue to be mindful of our founder’s wishes as we strive to maintain a professional image while balancing current trends in business and professional attire.

The definition of “professional attire” has evolved much over the last decade, giving women more options than ever before. Mary Kay recently announced some minor changes to our suggested professional attire guidelines for Company-sponsored events, such as Seminar, Leadership Conference and Career Conference. Hosiery and closed-toe shoes are now optional at these events as long as the overall effect is a professional image. Open-toe shoes and heeled dressy sandals that complement your business attire are welcome. Naturally, you’ll want to use your best judgment to determine whether hosiery is necessary to complete your professional appearance.

It’s important to note that professional business attire is still the standard for Company-sponsored events. These updated guidelines are not meant to replace the professional atmosphere that has come to be expected during Company-sponsored events, and it is not our intent to make these events “business-casual.” These minor updates are intended to enhance the professional style and image long associated with the Mary Kay name.

OK. Let’s look at this. Apparently, stressing the words “professional” and “business” are not enough for some to get the picture. Also, it stresses that “business-casual” is not the goal!

Perhaps it’s not clear what the difference is between “professional dress” and “business-casual.” This seems to scream a call for attention. What I’m going to do is start a series on image.

Tags: Image, InTouch, Personal Responsibility, Self-Discipline