Your First Impression Projects Your Personal Brand

By now you should know that Emotional Intelligence is highly sought after in the work arena. You may not realize how much your personal brand plays a role in the professional persona you project. From what you wear to how you communicate, you are a living billboard for your personal marketing plan. Image is all-encompassing and you have the power to control your message entirely.

A friend introduced me to Gretchen Neels, founder and president of Washington, DC based Neels & Company www.NeelsCompany.com.  As a speaker, workshop facilitator, and author, Gretchen is passionate about helping professionals at all levels become the elegant executives they were meant to be.

Gretchen is the author of the newly released e-book series, I Hate to Shop! But Still Want to Look Great, and the audio program, The New Professional’s Guide to Success. Her highly praised Style Workshops allow organizations to guide staff and executives alike on appropriate attire, helping individuals manage the impression they make on others.

As a woman who hates to shop for clothing but understand the importance of controlling my professional image – I really appreciate Gretchen’s wisdom and expertise about how to look great and feel authentic about my professional image. Not all of us work in environments where a business suit is the expected dress code. Gretchen helps professionals create an image that is authentic to the persona you want to project while feeling comfortable in your own skin.

But Gretchen offers much more than just wardrobe consulting – she is an etiquette and Emotional Intelligence expert who can whip you into shape as you prepare for interviews, networking, and any professional interactions. Here is a glimpse at her PASSCODE wisdom for nailing the opportunity to make a great first impression. Put your best foot forward by remembering PASS:

Posture, Attitude, Smile and, (Hand)Shake

• Always stand tall when meeting others and when introductions are made.
• Enthusiasm and positive energy are contagious – be sure to project a positive attitude.
• A genuine, warm smile makes you more approachable.
• Your handshake should be firm and convey confidence – practice makes perfect.

Tune in to hear me chat with Gretchen on Career Coach Caroline live on CBS Radio Tuesday, May 29, 2012 http://sky.radio.com/shows/coach-me/ as we talk about creating your own professional persona so you can exude knowledge, confidence and power in your work environment.