Business Class

>>Since John Molloy’s book, Dress for Success, in 1975 set the standard for a successful, conservative wardrobe, business dress has undergone radical changes—to the point that some people don’t seem to know what’s appropriate.

Dilbert comic strip creator Scott Adams played on this point with a humorous illustration in his book, Casual Day has Gone Too Far. Dilbert and two co-workers are walking in the office corridor, with Dilbert in a bathrobe, one co-worker in a superhero costume and the other naked.

While dressing inappropriately is funny in the cartoon, in reality it could mean not getting that job or promotion. You’re sending a message with every outfit; if you dress "the part," you’re more likely to get what you’re angling for. According to a survey by Careerbuilder.com, 41 percent of employers promote people who dress better.

What does "better" mean? Many people think they must wear an expensive, three-piece business suit to signify professionalism. Pricey clothes might be nice, but you don’t have to spend a lot of money to dress well. 

Follow a few simple rules, regardless of the style of clothing you wear in your profession: Be neat, be clean, be understated and don’t reveal too much.

When people ask what’s appropriate to wear to a job interview, I tell them, "Dress for the job you want, not the job you have." This is true for those wanting a promotion, too. Someone who’s striving for success is smart to study and copy the dress code of those in higher positions.

If you’re still unsure about what to wear, I suggest you go online and seek out a class or a professional who can help you create a successful wardrobe. John Molloy was right: Dressing for success can help advance your career. It could also save you from showing up to work looking like Dilbert.