dress high-level, it'll make the best impression, show you're taking this seriously, and demonstrates that you can represent them professionally to clients
91.3%
do business casual. it's just a meeting to talk to see if there's a potential fit, and you want to look like you'll fit in with the day-to-day with the other people who work there.
I was contacted out of the blue by a person who was formerly an EVP at a huge agency I used to work at. He has since struck out on his own and formed a small but growing agency. I doubt he really remembers me as he was way higher ranking than I was when I was working there. He feels that it's worthwhile that we meet, and gave me the choice of meeting for breakfast, lunch, or to come to the new agency. I chose to meet him at the agency so I can check it out.
Anyway, I'm a little stumped on what to wear. Do I go full blown professional, in a way I would dress if I was meeting the top people for their top client, which would be a suit and pumps, or do I make it more casual, like a nice jacket, coordinating skirt, tights and pumps... it's going to be freaking freezing and snowing btw on the day I will be meeting him.
Who knows who else I'll meet with when I'm there, and do I want to make the impression that I can represent at a high level, or that I'll fit in with the day-to-day?
-- Edited by D at 13:10, 2006-12-01
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"Fashion can be bought. Style one must possess." ~ Edna Woolman Chase
That's a tough call, but personally I always tend to toward a more professional look. I don't think you can go wrong in a suit and pumps (and a great coat, since it will be so cold). Why not wow 'em with the first impression? Your style is a huge part of who you are and I don't think it would be bad to outdress the folks there for this meeting (if that is the case).
I brought my jewelry to a high end gallery two years ago...wore a dressy blazer, skirt, and killer heels (suits would be overkill for my interactions with retailers). He liked the jewelry and he's been carrying my work ever since. Just this past September (two years later) when I went in to re-stock him, he mentioned the outfit I wore when I first met with him. He remembered it and thought I was so professional...so it definitely made a positive impression, even two years later.
IMO dressing more professionally for this meeting shows your respect for him as well as indicating that you can handle yourself with the clients.
I'll bet he does remember you. I can't tell you how many times people "knew me" or knew of me in the corporate world, though I didn't think they had any idea who I was (and I wasn't exactly a huge name in the any of those companies). The smart folks pay attention, and I'll bet that's exactly why he's contacting you now. :)
Good luck!
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"Good taste shouldn't have to cost anything extra." - Mickey Drexler
go professional. if he called you, then he remembers you. If you want a bit of flair, then add an antique brooch or a vintage scarf to your neck or purse.
good points. I have a navy suit and that navy wool cape jacket from NN. maybe I'll wear some fun shoes along with a great bag and accessories... don't know what blouse...
part of the reason I think I was contacted was my creative background along with classic account experience - so I should reflect my resume in what I wear. business base with creative touches.
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"Fashion can be bought. Style one must possess." ~ Edna Woolman Chase
I'll bet he does remember you. I can't tell you how many times people "knew me" or knew of me in the corporate world, though I didn't think they had any idea who I was (and I wasn't exactly a huge name in the any of those companies). The smart folks pay attention, and I'll bet that's exactly why he's contacting you now. :)
Good luck!
ITA. Best of luck - I hope it is a great fit for you!
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"Whatever you are, be a good one." --Abraham Lincoln
so I wandered into my closet, and I'm not digging the feel of the blue suit. I have this armani jacket I've been dying to wear - it fits beautifully and is waist defining. the lining is grosgrain and is exposed if I cuff it ( I don't have to cuff it - I can wear it uncuffed too and let the sleeve ruffle of the blouse peek through) I do love this blouse and you have all seen it before the skirt is dana buchman and is ultra high waisted. the shoes are givenchy and an oxblood color. was thinking of wearing charcoal opaque tights. do you think this is appropriate or should I go with a suit of matching skirt and jacket? they're all high quality pieces and come across as high level IMO - but maybe that's only my perception....
thoughts? (it will look much better on - thinking to uncuff too as much as I love the grosgrain)
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"Fashion can be bought. Style one must possess." ~ Edna Woolman Chase
I think that outfit you posted is perfect. It's professional but still shows your creative flair while still being conservative. Good luck (is this for a job?)!
I agree with the other posters. The outfit you posted is awesome. It's professional enough for any job interview (except lawyers and bankers - boo) and it's creative and polished at the same time. Perfect choice.
I agree with the other posters. The outfit you posted is awesome. It's professional enough for any job interview (except lawyers and bankers - boo) and it's creative and polished at the same time. Perfect choice.
Good luck! Hope it goes well!
Ditto. Professional, a bit creative, and polished all in one!
little did I know I would meet with 3 people and be there for 2 1/2 hrs... they don't know what the position would be either, but they think my skill set would be valuable to them. BUT besides full-time traditional, they asked me if I would entertain contract or part time, and I said for half of my normal salary I would do part time, so that's a bonus. We'll see... I won't get my hopes up. I caught myself smiling on the way home though, so I guess it went well I'll let you guys know if I hear anything. Thanks for the outfit help though, I think it was the perfect thing to wear for this.
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"Fashion can be bought. Style one must possess." ~ Edna Woolman Chase