I know most people hate traveling for business but I have to say I really enjoy it.  When I start to get antsy or my flight is delayed, instead of getting annoyed I say to myself what a great opportunity to do a little research on personal image and professional presence.

I wish people could see how they truly appear to others – I think most would be absolutely shocked! I’ll share a little story from one of my trips. As I was waiting for my flight to Denver, a professional man, fairly good looking and dressed in business casual sat across from me and began reading his book.  All of a sudden he began unbuttoning his dress shirt and taking it off right in front of me! My first though was that he was simply changing his shirt but he wasn’t. My second thought was what is he thinking?!! He just sat there in his white undershirt and black trousers and continued reading his book until his flight was called.  Guys this is a no-no! You need to wear a shirt!  Another no-no is the long ponytail (with elastics all the way down the tail) at any age but especially middle age.  Just don’t do it.

If you are traveling for business you need to look the part.  Jeans and a tee shirt (or undershirt) with a brief case don’t send the right message.  And just because you put a suit on doesn’t mean you look polished and professional.  I cannot tell you how many professionals I see both men and women, who look simply awful.  Suits that don’t fit properly, wrong colors, outfits that are wrinkled and shoes that are dirty, scuffed and just wrong for the outfit. Remember, everything about your appearance sends a message from the top of your head to the tip of your shoes.  It tells a story about who you are, what you care about and where you are going (career goals and vision).  The story needs to be clear and consistent. Next time you are traveling put your iphone or blackberry down, take a look around and you’ll see what I am talking about.  In a sea of mediocrity, it will be easy to stand out!