3 mins
Ford's Thoughts
Global business & beauty education expert, KIM FORD, shares news, views & observations from the international nail circuit
ABOUT KIM FORD
Kim Ford has worked in the beauty and education sectors for over three decades, in more than 40 countries. She has honed her skills in beauty, spa, sports, nails, holistic therapy and aesthetics, in private and public education establishments, spas, salons and retail businesses.
Kim has extensive experience as an international examination officer for awarding organisations, and has held the titles of chairman of BABTAC and CIBTAC and vice president of CIDESCO GB. An education consultant for CIDESCO International, she sits on a number of industry boards globally as a director or trustee, and has won awards for education and business in the UK and internationally.
As owner of Beauty Enterprise Solutions, Consultancy & Training, Kim supports industry education establishments in gaining accreditation or endorsement. She strives to raise industry standards and help beauty professionals reach their education and career goals.
Students of the London School of Beauty & Makeup dressed in smart black salonwear for CIBTAC examinations.
Hello nail superstars! Your professional presentation involves dressing appropriately, maintaining good personal hygiene and demonstrating proper etiquette in the workplace. It is important that you create a positive impression on your work colleagues, managers and clients, and good presentation helps you to appear competent and reliable, and shows that you have respect for your role.
A well-groomed look in the workplace reflects pride in your work and dedication to upholding the values of the business. Your appearance and demeanour can positively influence the feelings of your clients, who are more inclined to trust and engage with someone who presents themselves appropriately.
Key considerations
Your clothing should be clean, well-fitted and suitable for the business culture, and footwear should be practical yet presentable. Maintaining good personal hygiene at work is essential for both your wellbeing and professional image. Regularly washing your hands with soap and water can help prevent the spread of germs and if you have a cough or cold, wear a mask to reduce the risk of illness in the workplace.
Paying attention to oral hygiene is important in a professional setting, particularly as you work in close proximity to clients. Brushing your teeth regularly, using mouthwash and keeping breath mints handy can help ensure fresh breath throughout the day.
Remember your grooming habits, such as ensuring your nails are clean and your hairstyle is neat. Avoid using strong perfumes or colognes, as these can be overpowering for clients. Use deodorant – not just on the body, but on your feet and in your shoes. These small but significant actions can make a big difference to your professional image.
Your body language also plays an important role in how you present yourself. Maintain good posture, make eye contact and offer a firm handshake when meeting others. Non-verbal cues can speak volumes about your confidence and competence. Clear and concise communication is essential for successful collaboration among colleagues. By presenting yourself professionally, you are more likely to communicate confidently and effectively, leading to improved teamwork and productivity. Similarly, when interacting with clients, a professional presentation can help you provide information clearly and build rapport, contributing to a positive client experience.
Lastly, communication skills are essential for a strong professional presence. Practice active listening, speak clearly and confidently, and be aware of the tone of your voice and language.
Effective communication promotes positive relationships with colleagues and superiors, supporting a successful professional image.
Benefits
Paying attention to how you present yourself at work via your appearance, behaviour and communication style, allows you to establish yourself as a valuable asset that can significantly impact the success of the business and contribute to a positive work culture. This can lead to increased opportunities for career advancement, collaboration on important projects and positive performance evaluations from supervisors. Ultimately, the impact of professional presentation extends beyond personal appearance, influencing relationships, communication and overall success in the workplace.
Connect with
Kim: /kim.ford.3114
@kimfordexpert /kimcaford