Developing the "Write" Image

Last Monday, I got one of the worst and most expensive haircuts of my life (Kiva Salon, $100). Not only had this "senior design stylist" cut my hair expressly as I said I didn't want it cut, he then overdried my baby-fine hair to nearly the point of damage. So, on a beautiful, spring morning in Chicago, instead of my hair looking full, shiny, and healthy (like it did when I went into the salon), it laid flat against my scalp and looked like straw poking out of my head.

As I glanced at my reflection in the Macy's window at Water Tower Place, I debated about whether I should just go home and hide out or swallow my hair vanity and press on with all the things I had scheduled on my one day off of the week.

I forced myself to put one foot in front of the other and continue on along Michigan Avenue to my next destination. I had some gift shopping to do for upcoming events and was hoping to get a jump on my list.

Interesting thing. By not looking the part of a well put-together shopper, I found myself practically invisible to sales people. Have you ever been able to walk through a cosmetic department at any major store and not get stopped repeatedly? I went into three major stores and several boutiques and was completely ignored by all salespeople. Literally. I received no assistance at any of the places I went--and in some of the departments I was the only shopper! I can't remember this ever happening before to me. I hate shopping and I sometimes think that this makes me an extra special fun target for the sales associates. They usually approach me in droves. Not last Monday.

Not having the right image is more serious in business than it is along the Mag Mile. And, more particularly, as writers, what we do is difficult to prove to potential clients and employers. How can you portray to someone who's never met you before that you can write his employee training manual or her new system user guide?

Knowing what you're talking about and looking the part are key. Dressing neatly, cleanly, and professionally for the industry in which you're working goes far in building rapport with the people interviewing you. Even if you know that the office has adopted casual attire, bump up your own clothing a notch for a better first impression. After all, you're a guest in their office. Dressing well is a sign of respect.

Appearance won't keep you in a job if you've oversold yourself, and it in no way is more important than your writing qualifications, but the "write" image will set you apart from the pack when all else is equal.