Dress For Sales Success: 3 Steps To Consider To Leverage Your Look

According to a study conducted at the University of Texas, Austin, first impressions are important when it comes to character perception by people. This is especially true in sales, where a salesperson only gets a few seconds to convey the right message. The first thing that goes across will obviously be the appearance, followed by the presentation to the client. How salespersons represent themselves plays a very important part in the outcome of the sales call.

Salespersons must dress the part. The way they dress will reflect the product they intend to sell and the company they represent. People would think twice before trusting people who dress inappropriately. The same salesperson when dressed well can give off a more professional, knowledgeable air. Further research into the subject has found that clients respond positively and take seriously those who are well groomed and dressed professionally, as compared to others.

Tips for Dressing Right for Sales

To improve the success rates of your sales visits, all the little details, including dressing, have to be looked into. Here are a few simple tips to help present yourself appropriately for your next sales call:

Occasion: The first step to presenting yourself and having the maximum impact on the prospective client is to look into the when and where of the meeting. If the presentation is going to be made over drinks or over dinner, dress appropriately. This means casual but dressy. Similarly, match up when and where the meeting is to take place with the clothes chosen. Never be over dressed or under dressed for an occasion.

Apparel: Make sure that the clothes you wear are a perfect fit, not too tight and not too loose. They must not be torn or ripped or even stained, as this conveys a messy look to the client. Colors and styles also say a lot about the impression to be given off. Dark colors like black and navy indicate power and responsibility, while pastels indicate femininity. When it comes to style, shoulder pads signify authority, and stripes add height.

Details: Pay attention to details with not just your clothing, but also your hair, nails, moustache and so on. Minimize make up and jewelry if you want to be taken more seriously. However, tiny, simplistic details like a nice pair of cufflinks, tie or a simple watch or bracelet may actually add to the professional look intended to be conveyed.

Remember to keep these tips in mind to leverage your look. Apart from this, remember to groom your body language to suit the sales call, remain confident and be polite at all times.