Image is everything, especially in corporate America.
"You have one time to make an impression," said Pierre Clements, senior director of global/national accounts in the food and beverage sector of W.W. Grainger. "Learning how to dress for corporate positions helps with maintaining successful careers within the industry, and understanding a company's fashion culture is a good place to start."
Grainger is a Fortune 500 industrial supply company and a North American leader in maintenance, repair and operating products. In Clements' position, he travels across the country for corporate-level meetings and business-casual visitations to Grainger's associated sites.
Clements formerly served as vice president of sales for The Coca-Cola Co. for 14 years and in strategic leadership roles with Kraft Foods Inc. for a decade. So if professional men want to be taken seriously by top companies like these, Clements warns to stay away from the following corporate fashion faux pas:
Wearing wrinkled clothes.
"Coming to work with your clothes not ironed is a strong sign you take your appearance lightly," said Clements. "You want to look crisp and ready to work."
Not putting on socks.
"Yes, it's considered a 'hip' thing to do nowadays," Clements said, "but it's not professional on the corporate level. It comes down to being in tune with your business environment and knowing when you're a little too casual for the job."
Slouching in appearance.
"Make sure slacks, shirts and suits fit right and are comfortable," said Clements. "If you need help, Nordstrom has a great 'dress for success program' where personal stylists can help for free."
Donning cheap shoes.
"You want to wear good, quality leather dress shoes that complement your suits — basic black and brown," he said. "I have about 10 pairs I wear interchangeably on the job. While traveling, I also get my shoes shined frequently. If you're at the airport and have the time, get it done before your flight leaves. Nordstrom also offers a shoeshining service for cheap."
Failing to hair groom.
"You have to look the part, and for me, that goes from head to toe," said Clements. "Being clean-cut is a personal pet peeve of mine because people size you up and down very quickly. As a matter of fact, I go to my barber at least once or twice a week — and have been for the past 30 years."
Sporting excessive jewelry.
"It's a distraction when you have too much of it on," Clements said. "A nice watch: yes. A lot of necklaces, bracelets and rings: no."
Counting out a tailor.
"As you move up the corporate ladder and experience growth, find valued places to shop like Saks Fifth Avenue, or better yet, consult with a tailor for customizing suits and slacks for your body type as it may change throughout the years."
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