Making a career shift can be an exciting yet daunting experience. You may find yourself eager to take on a new challenge and enter a completely different field or industry, but with that comes the need to present yourself accordingly. One aspect of successfully making such a switch is updating your style and wardrobe to reflect your new goals and aspirations.
Research has shown that our clothes and general style can profoundly impact how people perceive and interact with us and our overall performance. In one study titled “Your Clothing Impacts Your Thinking,” researchers concluded that clothes affect cognitive processes and behaviors.
Another concept called ‘thin slicing’ refers to the idea that people make an instant assessment or judgment of a person based on visual cues. Therefore, knowing how your style might influence others when making a career switch is essential.
Being mindful and intentional about your wardrobe choices can help you appear more confident and capable in the workplace. Here are a few tips for revamping your style for a new career.
Owning Your Style Changeover
Find a personal style that reflects your authentic self and desired identity. Consider what type of clothing would suit the workplace while ensuring that it reflects your personality.
Invest in quality pieces that are timeless instead of trendy. Classic items such as tailored suits, fitted blazers, and dress shirts are a great place to start. Pay attention to details such as jewelry, scarves, and accessories. An eye-catching watch or statement necklace can add a touch of flair to any outfit.
Remember to never underestimate the power of accessories! Outfit add-ons that are usually thought of as practical or dull like glasses can add an element of sophistication to your look, so make sure to choose a pair that suits your face shape. You can quickly source glasses online and choose from various styles and colors.
Experiment and have fun with your look. Try out different colors, textures, and patterns until you find the perfect style for your new job.
By taking the time to customize your wardrobe for a new role or position, you can make sure you always look and feel confident in the workplace. Remember that it’s not just about what you wear but how you present yourself as a professional – and fashion is an integral part of that.
Find Your Own Personal Style
Look into your closet to identify your existing style. Find style inspiration by following influencers and designers online, reading blogs, and attending events or fashion shows. Create a fashion mood board with images of clothes and outfits that resonate with you.
Other ideas are creating a capsule wardrobe with key pieces that match the industry you’re transitioning to. And lastly, be willing to experiment and make mistakes! Learning how to express yourself through your clothes is a process that takes time and practice.
Adapt your style for different phases of life. It’s also important to remember that our style should evolve as we move through different stages of life. When faced with a new job, relationship status, changing body shape, or different income level, take the time to assess your current wardrobe and make adjustments as needed. That could mean updating a few key pieces in your closet or investing in quality basics for the long term.
Update Your Professional Image Online
Making a career switch is also an excellent opportunity to update your professional image online. Your resume, cover letter, and other credentials will be the first things potential employers see when they review your application – so make sure they are up-to-date with the latest information.
Never underestimate the power of a remarkable social resume, either. Having personal and professional social profiles is a great way to stand out in the job application process. Consider starting a blog or portfolio website to showcase your work and express your unique style.
When setting up or revamping your LinkedIn profile, pay attention to the photo, pitch, summary, structure, work experience, recent activity, skills, endorsements, recommendations, etc. In addition to a professional-looking photo, ensure your resume conveys the message you want to send about your career journey and achievements. Use keywords related to your industry to attract employers’ attention and showcase your expertise.
By updating your style and professional image online, you can make sure you look and feel confident when transitioning into a new career. Finding the right wardrobe pieces, colors, and textures can help you express yourself professionally and authentically. Remember to have fun with fashion while creating your style – conveying who you are as a professional is essential.
With the right wardrobe and an up-to-date professional profile, you can ensure that recruiters and employers know about your unique skills and qualifications.
Upgrade Your Style for Career Success
Making a career shift can be intimidating, but it’s also an exciting opportunity to express yourself through fashion and create your unique style. Update your wardrobe with clothes that match the industry you’re transitioning into, and make sure your professional image online is up-to-date.
With the right clothing pieces and a polished resume, you can ensure you look and feel confident during your job search. So go ahead, update your wardrobe, and refresh your professional image – the future you will thank you for it!
