When going into business, there are certain things you must understand. For most of us, we don’t have the capital to go out and start a business immediately so we have to network and build meaningful relationships to help get us there. While you’re out networking, it is important that you at least look the part so that those you are looking to make a connection with will take you seriously.

Most of us work from home when first starting our business. With the help of social media networks, it’s easy for us to market and advertise our business online. There will also come a time when  you will have to have face-to-face meetings with clients, investors, or other business professionals and you will need to be presentable. Knowing how to dress for a business situation can definitely help you seal the deal.

Here are a few tips:

Hair grooming: Always, always, ALWAYS, make sure you are groomed well and this includes your hair. A simple, soft hairstyle is always good. Nothing really extreme or funky to the point they are more distracted by your hair than what you’re talking to them about and that’s your business.

For the natural chicas, make sure your hair is really cute and neat. A nice headband and/flower with your locks is very nice a well. Just because you’re natural doesn’t mean your hair has to be standing on top of your head nor is being natural is an excuse not to come your hair at all.

Colors: Be sure not to wear loud colors and patterns. Wear conservative colors such as, navy blue, grey or even black.

Pants and skirt suits: are always a plus because they look really conservative when in a business setting. But ladies, be sure that your skirt is at a professional length. If you sit in a chair and can see too much thigh with legs crossed or uncrossed the outfit is too short. If your skirt has a slit it should be small, centered in the back, and no higher than the back of your knee. High slits in skirts are never appropriate. A slit should not impair mobility (walking and climbing up stairs). If you cannot walk comfortably in a skirt it is too small or too tight.

Skirts and sweaters: I know we all like to show a little cleavage every now and then, but in a business setting it is just not a professional move. As women, we already have a hard time with men taking us serious as business professionals much less having our cleavage out for them to stare at instead of our face. In the business world, cleavage is just not a good look or a good move.

Bras and undergarments: It is VERY important to wear a good bra on any day and especially when in a business setting. There is nothing worse than having your boobies hanging to your knees or having on a bra that’s too small and it looks like you have four breasts instead of two. Also, be sure to that your bra and undergarments/underwear support your figure and not show through your clothing. No one needs to see your pantyline as you’re walking away from them.

Shoes: Although the business dress code is changing somewhat, it’s always a good idea to wear closed-toe pumps that coordinate well with your business attire best. Avoid wearing chunky heels, flat soled-shoes, stilettos or any shoes that have too much height. Also, make sure the shoes fit well and are comfortable because you never know how long you will be standing. Nothing is worse than having your dogs barking while trying to promote your business.

These are just a few tips on how to keep a professional appearance. As business women, we want to be taken serious and we must also take ourselves serious as well. We have plenty of assets to offer but we don’t want people to misinterpret just what kind of ASSets we’re offering. **hint, hint**

Til next time…!!!