In our recent team meeting, we discussed the significance of investing in your image and how it plays a vital role in authenticity. Wardrobes, accessories, skincare, hair, and other beauty essentials are all part of an image, but so are identity, personhood, mindsets, communication, and much more.
This article is part of Effició’s “Leadership Growth Through Learning” series, where we share insights and strategies to help leaders develop their personal and professional skills. As an executive, founder, or entrepreneur, investing in your image is essential for personal and professional growth.
To extend the discussion, we presented the question “Why invest in your image?” via an anonymous survey to our executive students and subscribers. Here are some of the insightful responses we received:
1. Personal Investment in Image “I currently invest in my image because it’s mine to protect, cultivate, and project. It’s important that I feel good about myself and express myself positively to others. My image defines who I am, and I care about what’s being defined.”
2. The Need for Improvement “No, not consciously. I need to do better. My daughter has told me on many occasions I need to dress better. Once I engage people in conversation or they witness my deeds, my identity comes through. I guess a better image would draw prosperous people to me.”
3. Updating Image for Career Changes “One of the most important aspects of my career change is the fact that I must ‘update’ my image. I went from a relaxed business atmosphere to a very professional one.”
4. Keeping Up with Trends “One of the ways that I update my image is by keeping up with the latest trends in makeup. I have a dedicated cosmetics lady who helps me stay current and take fun time for myself. It makes me feel good about myself and confident both inside and out.”
5. Budget-Friendly Image Upgrades “Improving and updating my wardrobe has been a challenge recently with everything doubling in cost. I have made it fun by shopping at designer online hubs and participating in online auctions. I love getting a ‘good buy’ no matter my income, and I love it when a colleague compliments my appearance.”
6. Holistic Self-Improvement “Yes, I invest in my image because it is necessary as my business continues to grow. Recently, I have lost 17 lbs and dropped a dress size. I have colored my hair and changed my hairstyle. My eating habits have changed, I exercise and take vitamins daily. Growth and progression are not just for my business, it’s also for me as the CEO!”
7. Realizing the Importance of Image “I think your image tells a lot about you. The way you dress, act, walk, and talk, all these things come out whether they are interpreted as negative or positive. Answering this question made me realize I haven’t taken this part of my executive role seriously. I must make some changes.”
8. Defining Personal Aspirations “I am investing in my image because my image is an important part of who I am. It helps me define what I want out of life and who I aspire to be. If I do not invest in my image, no one will recognize me as the person I want to be. I always take time for myself and do things to motivate and inspire myself in mind, body, and spirit.”
9. Continuous Image Management “Anyone with any common sense knows that his or her image is an ongoing project. As a woman in her late twenties, I find it challenging to find appropriate clothes, accessories, and styles for my age group. Keeping my image on the level I strive for is a constant issue.”
These responses highlight the diverse perspectives on the importance of image. What do you think of the answers? It’s always interesting to see other viewpoints.
Some people can wear certain clothes or accessories that look good on them because they carry themselves with confidence. They are comfortable with their image. A compliment or validation can give a person the confidence to smile more because approval is often what we seek.
You don’t get a second chance to make a first impression. In business, personal, or social settings, if your image is important to you, make sure you get it right the first time. This awareness can pave the way to success.
The question is, can one contrive a look or an image, or must it be a part of you? Based on experience, you can’t successfully falsify an image in the long term.
Why invest in your image? Because image matters! A positive image can give you a mental charge. If you look good inside and out, you feel good. The confidence one can gain from how one looks and feels is priceless!
For more insights and actionable advice on personal and professional growth, attend our free education seminar. Held on Zoom every 1st Thursday of the month, this seminar will provide you with the full details of our education programs and help you take the first step towards enrolling as a student.
Sign Up for Our Free Education Seminar
Stay ahead with Effició’s “Leadership Growth Through Learning” series—your go-to resource for strategic insights and practical advice.
