Dressing for the sake of professionalism is all about making sure that you give off the right impression.

You want to ensure that you’re going to get taken seriously and treated with the respect that you deserve. However, no-one is going to respect a guy who doesn’t seem to respect himself by not taking care of his appearance. Here, we’re going to look at the key changes that can help you look a little more professional to get the kind of reception you’re looking for.

Hygiene and grooming are essential

A routine haircut and regular trimming of your body hair should be part of your schedule. As such, it’s worth keeping a high-quality shaving kit on hand to make it easier to take care of that essential grooming. Aside from any facial hair that you may have, it’s worth keeping your eyebrows in check, too. You don’t have to be clean-shaven or necessarily short-haired, you just have to keep it all neat. Of course, don’t forget to shower regularly and brush your teeth as many times a day as you need, either.

Keep yourself in order

Over the course of a day, it’s easy enough for things to become a little disheveled, for a tie to loosen or your shirttails to come loose. However, it’s important to learn how to keep your shirt tucked in and to make a habit of “checking” yourself every now and then and especially before you take the time to attend any meetings or appointments. If you’re having trouble with your outfit, then it’s worth taking the time to make sure you’re investing in stuff that fits, even if it means having to visit a tailor.

Be ready and be practical-minded

There are all kinds of outfits a professional man might wear, so we’re not going to encourage you to spend all day in a three-piece suit. However, one thing you should never be without is something like good leather bags. The right bag will help you keep track of all the documents and items you might need throughout the way without clashing with the overall professional bent of the outfit. Not only is it highly practical, but the right bag also makes for a very stylish accessory, which tends to be in short supply for men.

Be mindful of what colors you use

You might think to stand out and make yourself a cut above the rest but, in the business world, being too ostentatious rarely considered a good sign. Rather, you want to try going with a less overpowering palette, trying instead for neutral colors that allow you to look sharp without looking like you’re trying too hard. A good neutral color palette is masculine but without being overly aggressive and refined without being boring. You don’t have to completely avoid brighter colors, but they should be used with care.

Of course, looking the part is important but you need to be able to walk the walk, as well. This tips above are just the start in becoming the consummate professional.

Thanks for reading and y’all stay dandy.

-Diego

Follow me on Instagram and Pinterest for more menswear inspiration.

(Some of these links contain affiliate links, so that means if you click and buy something, I get a cut. It helps keep the site going! Full Disclosure)