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You Can Take Them Out – But You Better Dress Them Up First

I attended a business function for one of our vendors and the dress code was “business casual,” a variable term here in Houston. The owner of the company who was sponsoring the event was there with his wife – both dressed in “Neiman’s casual.” Several employees of the company were also there, dressed in “Nordstrom’s casual.” About the middle of the evening, the son of the owner, who also works for the company and will probably one day own it, turned up in “college casual.” You can guess what that looked like.

I’ve met with the son on other business occasions and for the most part he’s always been dressed appropriately. But this time, he just dropped the ball. I wanted to tell him, “Dude, it’s an indoor business function – you don’t wear sloppy cargo shorts. And I prefer not to see your feet in sandals (the last man who looked good in sandals was Jesus.) And didn’t your father teach you that you need to shave at least once a day?”

My point is that when you attend a business function, it’s business. That means dress for business, come ready to do business and don’t get me started on your feet (really). As a Certified Legal Nurse Consultant, dress the part and it will help you act the part. Never let the attorneys’ attire, no matter how bad it is, lull you into thinking that it’s okay to look less than the professional you are. And my parting words for male CLNC® consultants: Guys, if you are going to wear sandals (and I don’t recommend it – ever), think about getting a pedicure first.

Success Is Inside!

P.S. Comment and share the business dress mistakes you’ve run into, or the ones you’ve committed.

5 thoughts on “You Can Take Them Out – But You Better Dress Them Up First

  1. I live in Seattle, need I say more! I grew up in the South where people dress so was taken aback when we moved here to see how people dressed. Jeans without holes in them are considered a suit here. There is a sense of disrespect when you dress badly and are unkempt. Vickie’s blog is a good reminder, thanks.

  2. I wanted to comment on the attire issue here. I am soon to be NACLNC® member and have been meeting with many attorneys. I always dress for success, it is what the people I meet with expect. You see, I have worked with these attorneys already for 10-15 years as their drug and alcohol testing expert. I am known as the nurse with all the amazing shirts and ties. It is really surprising when you enter the attorney’s office and you see them in casual attire, jeans and casual t-shirts. I do not feel uncomfortable because of my attire, it kind of lets me know there is another side to them and they are people too. But what is the impression for the clients that come into their office that day thinking? Therefore, It is my attitude to be professionally dressed every day, not knowing who I will run into that day. I always market myself as a professional (I feel that marketing is very Important). Thank you Vickie for giving us this course. I am going to be an excellent Certified Legal Nurse Consultant.

  3. I agree, always dress for success! Scrubs have let me “off the hook” for years, as well as the athletic/nursing shoes that I wore. For my previous career, dressing for success was part of the package. I never really thought that I would have to learn to dress again, however, I was wrong. With new clothing styles and an impossible to fit foot…I feel like I need a coach. Mainly on the shoe issue.
    Do you feel that open toe shoes are a total “no no” for business with attorneys? What are your “coaching” suggestions for the ladies? Finding no shoes in stores and returning every pair I have ordered from specialty…I am in a rut on this issue!

  4. Cyndie, if you have trouble finding shoes, wear a pant that allows you to purchase a pair of shoes that fits properly without bringing so much attention to the shoe. For example if shoe color matches pant color, people notice the shoes less. Wear a colorful jacket or blouse to focus attention up instead of down.

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*The opinions and statements made by Vickie Milazzo, the founder of Medical-Legal Consulting Institute, Inc. are based on her experiences and expertise, should not be applied beyond the specific context provided, and do not guaranty or project actual results. Vickie Milazzo is no longer involved in the operations or management of the business, but is involved as an independent education consultant.

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