“Dress for the job you want, not the one you have.”

This quote rang in my ears as I ordered my first business suit a few weeks ago.

I recently had a positive conversation with a senior colleague, where I expressed my ambition to progress and take on more responsibility.

I feel that I am ready to move up the career ladder and started to think about the steps I could take to achieve this.

A difference I noticed between myself and more senior colleagues was the dress code.

Whilst growing professionally has very little to do with the way somebody looks, rightly or wrongly I believe there is an air of authority around anybody that has on a suit.

So, as I said, I initiated step one and ordered myself a suit – a suit that soon became known as my ‘power suit’.

I never would have expected the effects of dressing more professionally and it came as shock to see the difference an appearance can make.

First of all, I couldn’t get my head around how many people noticed and complimented my style, let alone the colleagues I inspired to purchase their own suits.

I became more motivated throughout the day and felt that I achieved more and got distracted less.

My power suit also gave me new found confidence. If you have read any of my other blogs, you will know I talk openly about the difficulties I face around being introverted and timid.

However, as I walked down the corridor in my suit I noticed my head held high, shoulders back and I was making eye contact.

I noticed a slight change in the way people around my building spoke to me and stopped to hold doors open.

Power dressing also came in use when I had a difficult meeting with a colleague. My appearance was a minor detail, however the effect it had on my mindset was seven-fold and reminded me of my worth as a professional.

I have always tried to look professional at work regardless but kicking it up a notch has been worth it.

It’s not always about wearing a suit. Maybe your power item is a killer pair of heels or your favourite cufflinks. Find whatever works for you and let the power dressing do the rest.

PS. If you’re wondering how I am getting on with moving up the career ladder, I have taken on some new projects and am looking into getting a career coach to help me take the next steps so watch this space!