One of the best ways to connect with your audience and deliver the best presentation possible is to dress properly. You might be surprised to find out what Dawn E. Waldrop,  author of Best Impressions: How to Gain Professionalism, Promotion and Profit, says you should consider when dressing for your big day.

You’re at your very best when you are dressed in comfortable clothes that make you feel confident, and your audience notices your sparkling image, Waldrop says. Here, Waldrop offers her “Six S’s” to dress so that your outfit works for you – not against you — during your next presentation.

• Sleeves. No matter what presentation situation you’re in, always wear long sleeves, Waldrop says. Long sleeves exude your authority, respect and professionalism. Short sleeves just seem too casual for an important presentation.
• Surroundings. Find out what color your backdrop is going to be before the day of your presentation. When choosing your attire, steer clear of clothing that is the same color as your background. You’ll blend right into the scenery.
• Skirts. Remember that skirts always appear shorter on stage. Avoid giving your audience a peepshow by wearing a mid-knee length skirt if you’re on the shorter side. If you’re tall, wear a skirt that falls a couple of inches below the mid-knee, suggests Waldrop.
• Shoes. Your shoe color should be the same color or darker than the hemline of your pants or skirt, says Waldrop. If you wear shoes that are lighter than the rest of your outfit, your audience will focus on them and stare at your feet during your whole presentation. You want them looking at your face.
• Style. Have your clothes tailored. Even the nicest clothing looks awful if it doesn’t fit your body properly. This is also important for how comfortable you feel. If you’re audience sees you struggle with your unusually long sleeves, they could miss your message.
• Silk ties. Men should always wear 100-percent silk ties; they give a polished appearance. But be aware of the length: the tip of your tie should fall right in the middle of your belt buckle.

Filed under: Management Minute