We all have days where work is the last place we want to be. Maybe you’re feeling tired, lacking confidence in your role or are simply struggling with concentration levels. If you notice this quite regularly, then it can soon start to take its toll on your performance and appearance at work and at home.
In honesty, you’re unlikely to be showing up to work everyday looking your most sophisticated and polished self. But, if you are feeling less confident lately or tired and overwhelmed, you’re less likely to be too bothered about the way you look or how you come across in a professional setting.
Although it’s not of interest to you at the moment, it’s likely that your manager and coworker will take note of how you’re coming across lately, which can impact on your career progression. Luckily, there are many different ways in which you can give your confidence a boost and help change how you feel on the inside, and how you look on the outside. Let’s take a look at how to appear more professional at work, even if you’re having a bad day!
Put Pride Into Your Work Outfits
No matter how tired you’re feeling or if you woke up late and had to rush out the door, putting a little pride into your work outfits can have a massive impact on how you come across in a professional environment. Most workplaces have a dress code, so you need to adhere to this, but don’t be afraid to mix things up a bit to make you feel more confident.
If you’ve got a big work meeting or presentation coming up, you can’t beat a power suit to look and feel confident and professional, making you smash your presentation. If you’ve got an important networking event coming up, then having an elegant work night out dress that you can put on and look and feel amazing in can make all the difference. Look to create a work capsule wardrobe made up of smart outfits that can be mixed and matched so that, no matter how you’re feeling, you can ensure you look and feel professional.
Organisation Equals A Clear Mind
Do you find yourself struggling to stick to one task, find yourself getting distracted or leaving work deadlines to the last minute? Then it might be down to a messy and cluttered desk. If you have your own workspace in the office, then try to keep it clean and organised. Studies have shown that a messy and tidy desk can reflect in your mindset and concentration levels. Most workplaces will provide you with accessories to keep your desk organised, such as drawers and folders, so be sure to use them if they are on offer. Add an easy to care for plant to your desk to add some colour, but also to make your workspace feel more calm and relaxed.
Show How You Can Exceed
Managers are always on the lookout for employees who demonstrate the potential to go above and beyond what is expected of them. This shows that they are dedicated and willing to get results not only for themselves, but for the company. These employees are often considered first when it comes to progression, promotions, bonuses and pay rises so it’s in your best interest to do so if you want to see your career progress.
But, when you’re not feeling so confident, this can often be the last thing on your mind. There are some easy ways to show your willingness to exceed expectations, such as contributing ideas for new assignments, asking for constructive criticism from your peers and offering to mentor new employees when they start.