Image Management

Introduction

Managing your personal image can increase the confidence people place in you and the career opportunities that come to you.

Image management starts with the first impression you make. Perceptions are remarkebly difficult to change onces they've been made, so its worth thinking about the kind of impact you wish to create from the outset. If you can get this right it will be much less complicated to manage your image in the longer term.

It is said that an impression is created in the first seven seconds of an encounter and that, once created, it's difficult to change.

It's important to learn how to orchestrate these critical few seconds. You will find it helpful to consider the five Cs:

• Context
• Communication
• Credibility
• Clothing
• Confidence & composure

Context

You should be aware of the context in which you find yourself and try to understand the purpose of the occassion and the motivations of those present.

Whether you're being interviewed for a job, meeting with a complainant, or conducting a meeting with senior managers, it's worth spending time thinking through what your audience's expectations are and how you can meet these.

Consider whether this is the time to take risks to distinguish yourself from others, or is it time when you need to demonstrate your compatibility with other people's values.

Communication

Once you understand the kind of accassion you're facing, consider what kind of language would be best to use. Good communicators are able to adjust the tone, tenor and timing of their speech to maximum effect.

Speak clearly and enunciate your words properly so everyone can hear you without having to strain. The speed, tone, and pitch of your voice are all signals that will be picked up by your audience.

Ensure that your body language is consistent with what you're saying. If you don't believe in your message, your body will show it. You often see it when people are nervous or are saying something they know to be untrue. You'll see their feet shifting, a knee jiggling, or exaggerated gestures to compensate for their discomfort with their own words.

Using vocabulary and body language that are compatible with those of the people you are speaking to gives the impression of immediate rapport. This is enormously helpful in creating an impact.

Credibility

Don't bluff. Show that you know what you are talking about. Use "wars stories" (personal anecdotes) if appropriate to show the depth of your knowledge. You need to find opportunities to demonstrate the extent of your experiences and skills.

Make connections with what's being said and use them as openings to illustrate your past experience. Don't overdo it. You need to strike a careful balance between demonstrating your capability and being sensitive to how much self-promotion someone can tolerate.

Clothing

Clothes can enhance or destroy a first impression. Too much of a good thing can be a disaster. Anything extreme - too bright, to tight, to sexy - may stay in the observer's mind as a picture representing you!

Deciding what to wear largely depends on the occasson. The safest strategy is to reflect the style of those you'll be meeting, perhaps erring on the side of conservatism.

Good grooming is equally vital. You should be well turned out. Try to avoid dark wet patches under your arms, an unironed shirt or blouse, and food-stained clothes. Clean and tidy is the best bet for most occassions.

Confidence & composure

Composure comes from confidence. When you're sure of what you want and are well prepared, you'll feel confident and therefore appear composed. This will allow you to manage any unexpected turns in the situation without a problem.

See also…

Activing listening: A good active listener will broaden his or her knowledge through relating to others, build motivated and responsible teams, and create an environment where new ideas can flourish and take flight.
Effective writing: Effective writing transmits a clear, concise message that is easily understood, well organised and to the point.
Managing perceptions: In senior management roles it becomes increasingly important to be able to understand and manage the perception others have of us.
Your Values: Values are about worth. They are the principles, standards and beliefs you are committed to and live your life by. You feel unhappy and dissatisfied when your values are compromised.

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Based on an article in Business - the ultimate resource