You’ve probably heard the term ‘Dress for Success’ before. Usually this refers to dressing nicely so that you will make a great impression when you go in for a job interview. I believe that this principle is equally as important for entrepreneurs. Even if your business is only a one person operation and you work out of your home, I still recommend dressing up in a suit or at least a dress shirt and slacks. I have noticed a distinct change in my attitude and behaviors that I can directly attribute to my attire.
When I started my first business I was working at home and would often times roll out of bed in my sweat pants and t-shirt and begin to work. Sure it is convenient and it feels great, but I started to realize that this sloppy dress affected my attitude and work quality. I felt a little lazy and sloppy and my attitude toward my work reflected this as well.
I started experimenting by dressing up and getting out of the house to work at the local coffee shop. Just by putting on a suit and getting out of the house, my confidence spiked dramatically as opposed to just slouching around in sweatpants. I felt important and that my mission of growing my company was more legitimate than it had been before. There was more of a bounce in my step that sweat pants just could not provide. This simple alteration in my routine had a tremendous impact on my attitude and productivity. It was a good way to network with people too because often times I would see the same people every day at the coffee shop. Surprisingly there were quite a few entrepreneurs that were there as well, working hard on their computers.
It is interesting how something that simple can have such a huge impact, but it does. I encourage you to try it if you are skeptical and to use it frequently as a way to boost your success. If you look and act like you are already successful then it will become a self fulfilling prophecy.
Here’s to your future success!
Happy Monday,
Keith
Tags: boost your business confidence, dress for success, increase your productivity, tips for young entrepreneurs, Young Entrepreneurs
February 7, 2009 at 11:25 pm |
I agree confidence does spike when you put on a suit. However, part of being an entrepreneur is doing what you want and feeling comfortable. Wearing a blazer with sandals can also do, if you know when and wear your own style is acceptable.
It’s better to be safe than sorry–stick to conservative dress when you have to…