Quote:
Originally Posted by Keith  My first thought (echoed by a few of the comments): that suit is not very flattering. Judging by your face and hands you're in good shape, but that suit swamps you and makes you look like a monotone blob. Superficial, I know, but I found it distracting. |
It seems others have more courage than I in mentioning these things. I wanted to say something but didn't, so I'll say it now in the spirit of giving (it's Christmas).
Steve: I want to help -- not to hurt -- so please take this as the helpful critique it is meant to be.
I totally agree with Keith. The first impression is visual and you know what they say about first impressions. From that first visual you looked uncomfortable. To use one your words Steve, your appearance was
incongruent with your message. Your message was smart, organized and successful. Your appearance on the other hand, gave the impression that you felt somewhat out of place and uncomfortable in your role. Because of that, your message was not cohesive.
I'm a big believer in the philosophy that a business should ensure that everything they do, and everything that represents them, should speak the same message in the same language. That way, every action the business takes is laser-targeted.
Steve, if you are going to do seminars and speeches, you would benefit from a tailor made dark suit that enhances the appearance of physical and mental fitness and energy. Consider that your appearance on stage is an advertisement. In visual advertising you create an image that not only represents the brand, but calls attention to the brand. When the talk is going to become a video that promotes you, your appearance should conform to the rules of image advertising.
So maybe that means hitting the image a little harder than you would for a personal function. A dark, well-fitted suit with a burnt red tie might work. My preference though might be a dark suit and slacks with a sweater or some-such pullover top. The sweater could be in color contrast to the suit suggesting an intelligent, cutting-edge but relaxed demeanor.
I hope you don't mind the critique Steve. I offer it from my heart.
Cheers,
John
Landscape Paintings of British Columbia - John Rocheleau