GILLETTE CAREER ADVANTAGE

ANSWERS FROM OUR EXPERTS

“Job Seeker” in Memphis, TN asks:

Hey, guys. I have a big interview next week for a manager position at a busy retail chain. They are a high-end store, but sell casual clothing. Any tips on how I can change my looks to help me land the job?

Mark says:

Excellent question: Should you dress smart to suit the position or casual to suit the style of the product? I would combine the two approaches – but first head down to the store and see how they like to put together a ‘look.’ Understand what they believe is stylish, then smarten it up a touch – that’s your best bet. Remember, companies like people who seem to appreciate their values.

Brett says:

Wearing a suit and tie might come off as too corporate. Instead opt for something more casual but still respectful: flat front trousers, a dress shirt and fitted sports jacket. Try incorporating an item from the stores collection, like modern trousers, into your look to show that you can represent the brand well. Look clean cut with a fresh shave and your professionalism and style will show. Good luck!

“Looking For A Promotion” in Buffalo, NY asks:

Wondering about how I can get the promotion coming down the pipes at work. I need some tips on getting noticed.

Brett says:

Getting noticed at the office can be a challenge. From a style perspective, it could be as simple as looking around you and noticing who’s been promoted in the past year. What is it that set these people apart from everyone else? Job performance is critical but I would bet they convey success and confidence just by how they dress and come to the office everyday. You don’t have to start wearing a suit and tie, just tighten up your look by establishing a successful morning grooming regimen, take better care of yourself with exercise and plenty of sleep and wear professional attire to the office each day. You want your colleagues to notice you’ve stepped up your game without quite knowing what you’ve done.

“Recently Laid-off” in Tampa, FL asks:

I’m new to the job market after 18 years at the same place. I feel like so much has changed. I don’t like to admit it, but it’s intimidating. Got any pointers that will help in getting back into the workforce?

Mark says:

People buy confidence – so make sure you don’t hide yours away. Grow your confidence with your look and your knowledge. Reach out to your network and ask questions. Hit the search engines and find out the latest developments in your industry and your chosen company. Don’t get down about rejections. Every “No” builds your experience and your knowledge. Review your look, you may need to update certain elements. Above all, take care of your appearance and style – it will automatically add to your levels of confidence.

Brett says:

Odds are your wardrobe is sorely in need of an update as you search for a new job. You can give yourself an updated look easily and affordably with a few well thought out closet upgrades. Adding flat-front trousers, sports jackets that are cut closer to the body, medium width subtle ties in stripes and solid colors, and lightweight v-neck sweaters in solid colors are easy ways to upgrade your wardrobe and give yourself that competitive advantage.

“Looking For A New Job” from Boston, MA asks:

Why is it that you say that employers don’t like my stubble, even on casual-Fridays? Movie stars and celebrities sometimes have it, and I like it. Doesn’t it make you look young and hip? What’s the deal?

Mark says:

You make a good point – but it’s all about context. If you worked in the movie industry, it is acceptable because in that context, it’s expected that you look somewhat different to the norm. However in business, it is expected that you look well dressed, clean-shaven and ready to make money! It’s your choice, but I say give ‘em what they want and you’ll always get what you want in return.

Brett says:

Stubble doesn’t fly in most work environments, so why risk it - especially in this down economy. It can make you look older and tired more often than young or hip.

“New on the Job” in Chicago, IL asks:

I’m completely new to my job, and I’m a bit over my head. I need some advice on getting by day to day with people who know a lot about the industry I’m in (sales), and can sense my lack of experience. What do I do to impress them? How can I step up my game and make a better impression?

Mark says:

Great question. Don’t try and compete with your more experienced colleagues, instead flatter them by complimenting their knowledge and do everything you can to learn from them. Observe their approach, style and behavior and simply copy what works well. You have the job for a reason – you show promise and potential – work out what you are best at and maximize that above all! Good luck, don’t show fear and keep learning.

Brett says:

Being good at selling is often about how well you convey ideas; looking the part and being approachable is a key part of this. Be yourself and know that you were hired because your employers saw something in you. Gaining knowledge and experience will come with time.

“Unhappy at Work” in Hoboken, NJ asks:

I don’t like my job because I don’t get noticed. What’s your advice on getting the attention of the people above me? Do I do something radical to my looks? Ask for more work? Help me.

Mark says:

It’s important to be noticed in the workplace, but always for the right reasons. Speak to friends and family about your sense of style. See how people you admire dress and decide what you could emulate. Introduce ideas in meetings or send suggestions by e-mail to people who count. Stand taller – your lack of confidence at work probably leads to you hiding away a touch. Be seen, say “Good morning.” Listen to what people say about their weekend on Friday then ask them about it on Monday. People love that kind of flattering attention. Slowly build a new network of people who think you’re cool.

Brett says:

It’s time to step up your game and get noticed! If your office dress code is ‘business casual,’ dress upward towards ‘business,’ not downward towards ‘casual.’ Don’t be the guy who comes to the office with his dress shirt sloppily un-tucked. Instead, start wearing a sports jacket and tie to the office a few times a week, and always make sure your shoes are freshly polished. You can even try a classic, shorter haircut to complete the look. Look your best and leave the house each morning with confidence. Try this approach first – ask for more work second.