Dressed For Media Success ? Personal Branding 101
Written on the 1st of February 2010 by Rachel Quilty
Appearing on TV or in a Video Blog can create an enormous boost to your Personal Brand.
A media or video blog interview is your opportunity to enthusiastically, knowledgeably, and succinctly communicate your message and reach your target audience.
Imagine, you are about to be interviewed. You haven?t said a word. Yet in those few opening seconds you have made a lasting impression.
Your leading attribute in a TV Interview is your personal appearance. You can express your authority quietly and effectively without saying a word.
As they say, ?An ounce of image is worth a tonne of performance.?
What people see is what they expect to get. Your best personal brand is determined more by what your audience or clients expect to see and what positions you favourably in their mind then just looking professional. What is your signature style and what will brand you as professional, individual and credible?
Becoming your own unique brand is essential! The purpose of branding yourself is to differentiate yourself, and achieve the desired result of being known as the thought leader or authority in your field.
Recognising the impact psychologically of colour can make a tremendous difference in how you are perceived. Make a statement with some bold colour or brand yourself with your personal best colours. Ensure a professional image that supports your position of authority and credible by selecting colours are consistent with your brand statement and corporate colours.
Your appearance plays a substantial role in promoting your personal brand. However, the Reporter is relying on you as an expert and you need to be prepared. Smooth and confident delivery of your interview will consolidate your professional image and boost your brand.
It is important to focus on the key message that you wish to deliver. And have prepared three points you wish to make supporting your key message. For example in a recent interview with the Channel 9 Today show, Jump the Q focused their message on the benefits of developing a signature style. Highlighting three key points for creating a Signature Style. Firstly, that it was affordable. It saves you time deciding what to wear and lastly, you can co-ordinate new look effortlessly.
There are many benefits to branding yourself with a Signature Style. Your unique style becomes an intrinsic part of your brand and differentiates you from others. You can express your brand effectively without saying a word. Your branded personal style becomes your uniform. You are always camera ready. In no time, you become instantly recognizable within your field. You become a mini celebrity in your marketplace.
It has been said that, ?A celebrity is influential when she has a definable style?. Individuals such as Victoria Beckham and Paris Hilton who have developed a distinct look have developed very valuable personal brands as a result.
Creating a Signature Style is an investment in building your personal brand and leveraging your professional profile.
? Rachel Quilty, internationally certified Professional Image Consultant, speaker and author believes, ?Building your profile is as simple as developing a strong personal brand and a striking personal image.? Rachel encourages Jump the Q clients to think strategically when developing a professional image to get that job offer, gain that promotion or win that client.
Creating an impact with your image to leverage your abilities and sky rocket your success is easy with Jump the Q?s advice on:
- Your personal best colours
- Styles that suit your body shape
- Wardrobe and travel planning
- Simple stylish hair and make up
- Savvy shopping for your shape
@ Jump the Q.com.au today!
Creating the Perfect Wardrobe Organization
Written on the 25th of October 2009 by Rachel Quilty, Professional Image and Personal Brand Strategist @ Jump the Q
It has happened to everyone at least once. You walk into your closet and you cannot find anything that you want to wear. You shuffle through hangers unable to find what you are looking for, and the few key pieces that you actually wear are being smothered by everything else in your closet. It is incredibly frustration, and you are not alone if you are not sure how to get it under control. In fact, getting started from scratch with wardrobe organization can seem daunting, but the truth is that it is not an impossibility. In fact, with only a little effort you can get control of your out of control closet.
To get started you need to realize exactly what your goal is with your wardrobe organization. First of all you want to be sure that you have a variety of clothing that can be mixed and matched to work together. This way you only need a few pieces to actually put together quite a few outfits. On average you want to have just over half of your wardrobe to be comprised on classic and timeless pieces of clothing. This basically means your classic little black dress, black trousers, suit coat, etc. The rest of your wardrobe should be split evenly between staple pieces like basic t shirts, blouses, and camisoles, and more fun and trendy pieces. This formula will help to ensure that your wardrobe has variety to it while also being functional.
Now the first thing that you need to do after discovering this formula is to truly evaluate your current wardrobe. Take a look at what pieces you already own. Really look at them with a critical eye to be sure that they are in good condition, and do not need to be replaced. You should not keep anything that does not fit, is ripped, torn, or stained. Additionally, if you have not worn it in over a year, chances are that you are not going to within the next year. Do not be afraid to get rid of it. Out of style clothing should also be taken out of your wardrobe. If it was the height of fashion ten years ago chances are that you should not be hanging onto it.
After you have taken a really close look at your wardrobe you can be prepared to craft a list of what you need to complete your wardrobe organization. There are a few basics that you must make sure your wardrobe contains. A great coat is essential to any wardrobe. Be sure that you have chosen one in a neutral shad that can go with any outfit that you might be wearing. You will also want to have some luxurious knits. Choosing top quality sweaters to be part of your wardrobe will help you to stay warm and stylish during the winter months. Additionally, you need to have the traditional button down collard shirt. More often than not it is safe to go with a basic white collard shirt, but you can also choose to go with a black or a tan if you would like.
Dresses and skirts are also essential to the perfect wardrobe. In your wardrobe organization you will need to make sure that you have a cocktail dress in your closet. Of course the obvious choice is always the standby little black dress, but you can deviate from simply choosing black. For this you want to steer away from neutrals so perhaps a rich red or a bright jewel tone might be a great addition to your wardrobe. You will also want to take the time to ensure that you have a classic A-lined skirt. This type of skirt is flattering on all body types and it can easily be mixed with many different types of tops.
Pants are vital to any wardrobe. You should have a great set of trousers in your closet that fit you perfectly. If need be, do not hesitate to get them altered. Additionally, you will want to ensure that you have a fantastic pair of jeans. Typically choosing a darker wash will give you the opportunity to dress them up or down as need be.
Lastly, in your quest for the perfect wardrobe organization you need to think about accessories. You must have a great quality handbag that is in a neutral shade so that it can go with any outfit. Additionally, you need to be sure that you have a variety of shoes to dress up or down any of your classic pieces.
About the Author: ? Rachel Quilty, Professional Image and Personal Brand Strategist as well as an internationally certified Professional Image Consultant, speaker and author of professional development must- have book ?Brand Yourself? . Rachel believes, ?Building your profile is as simple as developing a strong personal brand and a striking personal image.? Rachel encourages Jump the Q clients to think strategically when developing a professional image to get that job offer, gain that promotion or win that client. Take control of the decisions others are making of you. Start with these simple strategies, in our free ebook ?Make Your Mark? available at www.jumptheq.com.au.
Creating an impact with your image to leverage your abilities and sky rocket your success is easy with Jump the Q?s advice on:
- Your Personal Brand Strategy
- Your Signature Style
- Your personal best colors
- Styles that suit your body shape
- Wardrobe and travel planning
- Simple stylish hair and make up
- Savvy shopping for your shape
Jump the Q today!
Creating the ‘wow’ in Interviews
Written on the 1st of April 2009 by Rachel Quilty
First appearances are everything. Rachel Quilty, National Manager of Jump the Q , a leading Professional Image Consulting firm, says, ‘It is vital for job seekers, who are often competing with dozens of hopefuls, to make a great impression and be memorable’.
Her number one suggestion is to always dress appropriately for the interview and the job. Once you’ve got that right, creating a ‘wow factor’ that will ensure you’re remembered is simple and effective. Here’s how:
1. Show emotion. (No, this doesn’t mean cry desperately that you want the job!) Show enthusiasm and a willingness to learn. It’s refreshing to see.
2. Use your interviewer’s name. Everyone loves to hear their own name. Give your interviewer a firm handshake and repeat their name so you remember it. Use the name two to three times during the interview.
3. Maintain eye contact. Even when you are nervous, good eye contact conveys confidence. Breath deeply to get nerves under control.
4. Ask questions. Questions such as ‘What will the job entail?’, ‘When would be a good time to start my trial?’ and ‘Can I have a tour and meet the other staff?’ are good (but not ‘How much will I be paid?’).
5. Research the company in which you’re seeking employment. Interviewers will be impressed you showed initiative and interest.
6. Be prepared for the standard questions you may be asked, such as ‘Why would you like this job?’ and ‘What relevant experience do you have?’. Take a notepad into the interview if appropriate. Having it handy can help calm your nerves and shows you’re interested enough to take notes or to refer to notes you’ve brought to the interview.
7. Always be honest and truthful, but put a spin on your weaknesses and emphasize your strengths. For example, if you don’t have a lot of experience for the position, be truthful in saying what experience you do have and back it up by adding that you grasp ideas and tasks quickly and are willing to learn.
8. Identify key attributes of someone who would succeed in the position. For example, in hospitality, it is vital to be able to remain friendly and pleasant while working long hours on your feet. In applying for a hospitality job, you would emphasize that you are friendly even after long hours.
9. Smile. No one wants to work with a grump. Everyone enjoys the company of happy and friendly people. So smile as if the job depended on it!
Jump the Q conducts personal and professional development courses for school leavers, new graduates and job seekers. Please call 1300 655 755 or click here to receive a free ebook and comprehensive information kit.
Confessions of a Shopaholic
Written on the 1st of March 2009 by Rachel Quilty
Confessions of a Shopaholic is coming to our screens soon, but while a lot of us can identify with Becky Bloomwood’s ability to blow the credit card on clothes she can?t afford, the current recessionary times have meant most of us have had to reign in our ‘Inner Shopaholic’.
That said, a stylish appearance is still important in a work context, so how can you put your best foot forward, even if your budget doesn’t stretch to Jimmy Choos?
Rachel Quilty, a Senior Image & Style Advisor, for Jump the Q, says it?s really about shopping a bit smarter.
In a recession, it’s more important than ever to present the best image of yourself. And, even if you don’t have a job currently, you’re likely to be going for interviews, so what you wear will act as a major signal to potential employers. she explains.
Back to the concept of ‘shopping smarter’ what does this mean?
‘You mix and match,’ says Quilty. I would always advise spending a reasonable amount of money on a good coat, a nice white shirt, leather shoes and an excellent bag. Then you can dress these pieces up with great fashion items.?
Quilty says it’s vital to establish a wardrobe budget, and highlights the concept of the ‘cost-per-wear ratio’. If you’re going to wear something a lot, then even if it’s slightly pricey, it will actually work out as good value in the end. That’s much better than picking up an impulse buy in the sales and never wearing it, she says.
Her rule of thumb is that whatever you buy in these recession-fueled times should go with at least three other pieces in your wardrobe and should be in a good, ‘solid’ color (ie: nothing sheer or very pale). Quilty also advises de-cluttering your wardrobe ? calling it a ?wardrobe audit? ?and revamping some of those pieces that have lingered in the back.
Quilty offers these top tips:
1. Spend more on big-ticket items, such as suits and dresses.
The rule for buying a suit is to buy the very best you can afford. A good suit will not only look much better on you, it will make you feel more professional. Buy a classic suit in core colors such as charcoal, black , deep olive, brown and you won’t need to replace it for a couple of years or more. In terms of cost per wear, buying quality will actually cost you less in the long term.
2. Buy less-expensive basics.
Staples such as dresses, trousers and skirts are likely to be put on high rotation, so consider paying a little extra for better quality items. It’s a fact that if a dress or skirt feels good and looks good, you’re much happier to wear it for longer before replacing it. Stockings and camisoles look best crisp and new, so buy from lower-priced brands and re-stock regularly in fashion colors and patterns.
3. Save your cash when it comes to fashion fads.
Okay, we’re all guilty of buying into the latest fashion trend (ruffle shirt, anyone?), and that’s fine, but don’t break the bank if you think it’s only going to be in fashion for the season. Shoes on the other hand are much more seasonal ? especially for women. There are plenty of brands that offer good quality for less, so don’t take out a second credit card to pay for heels which will be out of fashion in a single season.
4. Spend on classic items that will last a few seasons.
Classic shapes, on the other hand, will hold their own longer so spend more on items such as sharp white shirts, pencil skirts, V-neck cashmere jumpers and tailored black pants. Classic tailored suits, shift dresses and jackets are all pieces which will extend beyond a single season.
5. Invest in a good hairdresser
A good hairdresser knows how to cut hair in a way that allows it to grow out well, meaning you’ll look groomed and professional for at least six weeks. An excellent hair cut is a wise investment. Keep looking until you find a hairdresser which suits you. Don’t compromise on your image and hairstyle.
Confessions of an Heiress
Written on the 22nd of July 2009 by Rachel Quilty of Jump the Q.
Paris Hilton – Still the Brand.
In 2007 we published an article which questioned how Paris Hilton’s personal PR would survive her time in jail?
Well if the recently released results are true- Paris Hilton survival instincts were on cue and her personal brand suffered very little if anything it her brand equity increased dramatically.
The most googled celebrity for the past year was recently name – yes you guessed it! The Heiress herself. This is an impressive stat. One that many businesses, media personalities and sports star and celebrities would love to emulate.
What branding lessons can we learn from this Heiress?
In researching our new book ‘ Brand Yourself! High Impact, Low Cost Strategies to Market Yourself and Stand Out from the Crowd’, we had to include a case study on Paris Hilton – The Brand.
Reading the Amazon reviews on Paris Hilton’s book “Confessions of an Heiress” it is easy to see several branding principles at work. PR Specialists often manufacture ‘Notoriety’, in a bid to polarize audiences. No fabrication required for Paris!
Searching within Amazon.com for Paris Hilton over 200 items came up. That’s a better search result then most businesses have on Google and that’s just one platform. I quickly see brand extension and brand loyalty elements surfacing when you consider the various products Paris has or lent her name to.
Branding is the promise you make to your audience and clients. Your brand is what is in the hearts and minds of your clients, fans or colleagues.
Paris is an heiress, she acts like an heiress and she keeps her promise. In her book ‘Confessions of an Heiress’ Paris maintains you too can adopt an ‘Heiress’ mindset.
I quote ‘ If you can channel your own inner heiress, create your own image, and project an extreme sense of confidence – even if you don’t feel it every moment – people will treat you differently. Sure, heiress are born with privileges. but if an heiress doesn’t project natural born super confidence, no one is going to take her seriously or put her on the pedestal she deserves to be on. Put yourself on your own pedestal, and then every body else will, too. ”
Friends, this is personal branding gold. Now where is my pedestal?
‘Rachel Quilty, Personal Brand Strategist and internationally certified Professional Image Consultant, speaker and author believes, ‘ Building your profile is as simple as developing a strong personal brand and a striking personal image.?
Rachel encourages Jump the Q clients to think strategically when developing a professional image to get that job offer, gain that promotion or win that client. Take control of the decisions others are making of you.
Start with these simple strategies, in our free ebook ‘Make Your Mark’ available at www.jumptheq.com.au.
Creating an impact with your image to leverage your abilities and sky rocket your success is easy with Jump the Q’s advice on:
- Your Personal Brand Strategy
- Your Signature Style
- Your personal best colors
- Styles that suit your body shape
- Wardrobe and travel planning
- Simple stylish hair and make up
- Savvy shopping for your shape
The world is fascinated with Makeovers. Careers are made and lost on your ability to continually improve, advance and reinvent yourself.
TV programs such as What Not to Wear, Biggest Loser, 10 Years Younger and Extreme Makeover highlight our desire to change.
What is not apparent at first is how the makeover changes beliefs and attitudes. Our new ‘look’ improves our lives and our approach to it. It changes the way we see ourselves and that impacts the way others begin to see us.
Madonna knows it.. so does Nicole Kidman..so does every star that does a make over to re-invent their look, for that matter.
We watched as Nicole stepped onto the red carpet with her new straight hair and towering heels- post Tom.
An article at the time advised that Nicole’s new look was more than skin deep. It proved she was taking risks, and moving on with her life. Doing what she wanted! Branding her a winner!
Nicole’s transformation allowed her to move forward from one career success to the next.
Psychologically we can leave the old behind and confront a new life with a deeper understanding of ourselves.
Who are YOU? Is it time to upgrade your professional image to better reflect your potential and career goals.
Take control of the decisions others are making of you.
Image Consultants can assist you in building and leveraging your professional image to better reflect your true potential. For some tips on updating your professional image, start with what styles of clothing will work best for your age, size, body shape and lifestyle.
Building your profile is as simple as developing a strong personal brand and a striking personal image. When getting a new look you need to think strategically as you are developing your new image by deciding what the new look will do for you: to get that job offer, gain that promotion or win that client.
Creating an impact with your image to leverage your abilities and sky rocket your success is easy. You just need to use the tools that are presented to you to begin. Look at this cool tool!
Bookmark This Post:There are many things that influence our choices in clothing and accessories.
- Start with your body shape
- Continue with your skin undertone coloring (the pink or peach you see when you look at your fingertips when you turn your hands over)
- Then look at your hair color (is it your natural color or are you having it colored)
- Then look at the color of your eyes
Out of these items which people commonly check when purchasing clothing, the only ones that are needed are your skin undertone and body shape. Dressing to match your hair or eye color are secondary to these things.
Select a true turquoise and hold that color up to your face then duplicate the way your face looks when you try on other items of clothing. This is what it means to support your skin tone and when you look your very best. This is the only color that everyone can wear. Your shade might be lighter or darker and you can play with that so the color gives your skin tone the best overall look with no shadows or dark lines. Then use that as your guideline for every color you try on to be sure you continue to look your very best.
Then the style of clothing for your body shape is the next thing to consider. You can get amazing information from a new online source for giving you this information. Check here: to get a nice coupon so you can have your information before you go shopping the next time.
Bookmark This Post:Do you leave others with the impression you intended?
Are you remembered for all the right reasons?
What do people say about you when you are not present?
Your attitude, confidence, people skills, etiquette and body language are all just as important as your visual image in getting you to the top and sustaining your position once there.
I have insider NEWS to share with you about what in now available online and immediately. This rocks!!!
There are no excuses now for not looking fabulous and knowing which clothing styles suit you. The eStyle Portfolio is a world first online product which allows you to enter your details: your body shape, age and lifestyle and instantly you have access to your own eStyle Portfolio. View the latest fashions that suit your figure. The best thing… right now is I am doing an introductory price of $74.50 for a short time put in discount code formyfriends. You can find the information at Get Your Profile
You will be shown exactly what clothing style and accessories suit your body shape, age and lifestyle.You will have access to hundreds of exciting new style co-ordinates for you , with every program having over 660 full color fashion photos that instantly bring your style to life and will have you shopping with confidence.
Bookmark This Post:I am a girls and ladies ready to wear Clothing Designer. I have designed lines that sold wholesale in the Apparel Marts to boutiques and stores. I often have created one of a kind jackets and sweaters for individual clients.
The face is the focal point when everything is in your correct proportion so your face and how your skin looks is so important to your image. Knowing this has allowed me to develop a proportion tool to allow the eye to rest on the face. It is called a Body:Gram Fashion Tool.
In addition, I am an Image Consultant. Being trained in color analysis and color theory has helped me to take my clients shopping when they needed items for their wardrobe that were items that I was not creating for them, like shoes and accessories.
Trends are a part of doing both of these skills well and I enjoy connecting people with the newest trends so they can be more successful.
Bookmark This Post:If you want to be seen, heard and remembered you are in charge of the impact your image is making on your viewer. You have 8-12 seconds to make an impression. A positive impression will allow you to be heard with your content you want to share with others and their opinion is important if they will recommend you or not or if they will return to hear more of what you are sharing.
If you are consistent at presenting yourself they will see you as more credible and be more willing to listen to what you have to say. You may not get to share with them if you are inconsistent so it is important for you to be sure you present yourself in a similar way each time you get dressed.
Bookmark This Post: