As a leader, your personal brand tells the world who you are, your unique promise of value, and the experience they can expect from your presence. Therefore, this 4th of July, as you prepare to travel, don’t leave home without clear brand awareness. Continue to lead the way by making dynamic lasting impressions on the road, by strategically packing a well-defined professional wardrobe creating a look that sets you apart from the crowd.
Whether you plan to travel by car, train, plane, or boat, avoid the temptation to wear ‘just any old thing’. Make the commitment to keep your best face forward by being “on brand.” As a leader, you never know who you will meet that could open the door to that next great opportunity.
Making the best choices when it comes to your professional wardrobe – in light of your power colors, personal style, body type, the occasion, and activities – does not have to be overwhelming. With the proper strategy, even when you travel, you can freely and easily reflect your personal brand attributes.
Adding a little “sparkle” to that is sure to make a lasting impression:
1. Start with a plan. Make a list of dates, activities, and people. Choose the best clothing and accessories that will authentically express the best YOU in every situation!
2. Don’t pack delicate knits. Avoid bringing clothes that snag easily. Good fabrics to pack are light weight denim, cotton, linen, or tropical weight wool, sturdy knits, spandex, microfiber, and polyester blends.
3. Wear or carry several layers of clothes. This is especially beneficial if you are traveling by plane to help reduce the weight of your luggage and incurring additional costs. This way, if you happen to get cold on the plane, the extra layers will provide warmth.
4. Roll your clothes instead of folding. This will also help to lighten your load and reduce wrinkles.
5. Pack outfits that you can use to create a layered look where you can mix and match tops and bottoms to create multiple outfits. Ladies, check out www.bbydonnam.com for some fun and creative ideas.
6. Avoid packing shoes that you have not broken in already. If you find yourself doing last-minute shopping for shoes, make that shopping date at least a week before you go. Wear the shoes at least once. Choose several styles and varieties: strappy, sandal, flats, etc.
7. For men, especially, remember that solids and pinstripes tend to create a stronger presence rather than plaids. Also, they can be mixed and matched with solid slacks more easily.
8. Bring your accessories. Keep your more expensive pieces of jewelry at home. Buy quality inexpensive pieces to take with you on trips. To provide extra protection from the sun remember to bring a hat or two.
9. Purposefully add color to give extra life to your branded look. After all, it’s the 4th of July and everyone will wear the colors of choice! Yet, choose to wear your colors of independence on purpose. For example, wear:
* Red
To communicate a confident presence that conveys energy, love, power, excitement, passion, and cheer to the festivities.
* White
To create a peaceful presence that exudes purity, simplicity, hope, and transparency in words and deeds.
* Blue
To convey a calming presence that communicates loyalty, trust, stability, and strength as well as authority in your relationships with all who come in contact with you.
Your personal brand is too valuable to waste. Do not allow yourself to be caught on the road with a look that does not speak well of your leadership and personal brand. Start your travel with peace of mind before you even get through the security check. Allow the confidence and clarity that you have about who you are as a leader to shine! Have any questions or want to share your concerns about your next business trip? I am here as your guide to help make your journey in leadership branding easier.