Weaving Excellence into Image and Professionalism
by Aundráy Collins

                                         
When you think of professionalism, what comes to mind? If you're thinking polished appearance, impeccable behavior and etiquette as well as effective interpersonal and communication skills, then you are on the right path. As a matter of fact, you and your image are on the right path. 

Cultivating your best professional image means bringing to the forefront, the best qualities you have to offer. It does not mean cultivating perfection.  Perfection is an unrealistic and unattainable goal. Excellence and quality, on the other hand, are standards. Are you meeting the standards?  If you want to have a competitive edge, elevate the standards by using your BRAIN POWER:

Behavior- Remember when mom said, "Mind your manners"? Etiquette is always in style. Emily Post's The Etiquette Advantage in Business: Personal Skills for Professional Success is a great tool for everyone.

Raise the bar- Always seek ways to self-improve. Set realistic goals for yourself.

Appearance- Don't let your attire be your downfall. When in doubt, enlist the help of a professional.

Interpersonal communication- Brush up on your professional writing skills. Learn the proper handshake, how to introduce yourself, and conversation starters.

Networking- If you don't have that coveted job or are looking to change careers; networking is the ultimate tool. Not only will you meet other professionals; you'll be working on your interpersonal skills.

Persistence- "If at first you don't succeed..." Don't be afraid to ask yourself and others how to go about things a different way. Learning and persistence go hand-in-hand. The more you learn from your experiences - the more you're able to refine and polish your image.

Optimism- Always wear a smile and a positive attitude. Studies show: those who are optimistic and smile often, live longer. Go ahead. Apply for that CEO position.

Work ethic- How you do what you do when you do it, says a lot about your character and image. Remember, professionalism is about excellence. Walk the walk.

Empower- Strive to lift others up. Always be in a state of being mentored and mentoring.

Respect- Never step on toes to climb to the top. When you respect yourself and others, the gift keeps giving. Karma is never too far down the block.

Recently, I was on a local talk show. The host wanted to know my thoughts on "sacrificing" personality and style for the sake of interviewing for a job or adhering to company guidelines. This topic is tossed my way very often. Here's my answer: I know, for a fact, employers don't want you to change who you are. Past the glowing work experience and references, they hired you because they like you and hope you will exceed the standard. However, there are rules for everything and business is business. You need to make sure your personality (behavior) and style fit within the confines of the rules and guidelines the company dictates. Ask yourself this: will my actions prevent me from excelling? If so, am I okay with being in the same place five years from now?

If you were to compare your professional image to a garment: the better it is woven and the higher the quality - the more likely it will sell.  When we choose to put excellence into action and show others the quality of who we really are, we aren't hanging by a thread, but strengthening the fibers of being successful. The definition of success varies from one person to another. However, there's no doubt that when one seeks to cultivate one's image and professionalism, the path to success will be golden.

Aundráy Collins, owner of Aundráy Collins Image Consulting, is passionate about coaching others on presence and working with companies on how to align employees with their specific company brand. Her energetic and creative approach has made her sought after as a motivational speaker, facilitator, and frequent talk show contributor. Aundráy seeks to empower others to elevate themselves and to enhance image through the effective use of appearance, behavior, and communication. www.aundraycollinsimageconsulting.com

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