The Importance Of Having A Professional Dress Code At Your Workplace

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description : 

They say that it is not apt to judge a book by its outer cover. But an eye-catching and tasteful cover will increase the chances of its sale significantly. Taste in clothes and dressing sense varies from one person to another. Some like to keep it subtle, while others like to go bold and bright. A 9 to 5 type office is not a hip place. People are bogged down by work pressure.

There is too much stress in the office environment. That does not mean you have to dress in a depression manner as well. Picking party clothes and office clothes is as different as chalk and cheese. With the right balance, you can make office attires fun and sophisticated at the same time. Some organizations have strict dress codes, while others have a relaxed attitude. An employee must put some thought while stocking his/her wardrobe with professional clothes. 

1. Dress Code According to the Industry

Only suits will make the cut in strictly corporate offices. These offices have a business professional dress code where only trousers, blazers, pencil skirts, solid colored shirts, and ties are allowed. If you work in an office with a business casual dress code, then men can replace formal trousers with chinos. Leather footwear is also allowed. 

As for women, plain but bright tops, embroidered shirts, and a variety of shoes will make the cut. If the office environment is too relaxed, then you can wear anything. That being said; never show up in shorts, bermuda, heavily embellished tops, too revealing outfits and flip-flops

2. Creates a Cohesion in the Workplace

Employees work in groups to attain a common objective. A professional dress code is needed for visual cohesion. It gives a sense of belonging to a group. 

Too dissimilar dressing patterns can produce an awkward vibe in the workspace. Dressing conveys messages, and proper dress codes enable all employees to send a positive message on behalf of the organization. 

Dress to impress

Following correct professional dress code, allows a person to create a positive impression on the interviewer. First impressions are essential. If the professional attire catches the eyes of the authority, your chances of bagging the job will increase. 

If you are already working in an office, you must be well dressed to create a positive impact at any time. You never know when the CEO will drop by for a surprise visit, or if you dump into your ex-flame. Best dressed men and women stand out amongst others.

3. Reflecting the Brand Image

Every employee represents the company. If they don’t create a good impression in the market, then the company’s status drops. 

A proper dress code will prevent this from happening. When every staff member is perfectly dressed, the reputation of the organization rises. 

4. Dress for the Post you Desire 

Juniors and back-office staff can get away with slight alterations in the dress code. If they wish to climb the corporate ladder, then they must dress accordingly. 

If you want to get promoted to a manager, then follow dress codes that will suit the respective role. Your dressing will create an impression on the authority. They will take you as a serious and ambitious candidate. 

Right fabric and size

You are in the office to work. No one will pay you only to look good. If you are not comfortable in your clothes, then you will fail to concentrate on the task. Your productivity, performance, and chances of promotion will dwindle fast. Many offices demand their employees to wear blazers. 

Though these are not an issue during winters, wearing a blazer is quite a challenge during summers. It is here that selection of fabric comes to the forefront. You will get cotton, linen and silk blazers in stores. They are light, comfortable, come in several colors and helps in abiding by office dress code. Light, breathable and soft fabrics are top picks for professional clothing.

If you are lucky to work in an office that has no restrictions on clothing, then you can opt for bright and printed blazers as well. In that case, opting for softer fabrics like silk and linen will be ideal. Team up a deep red T-shirt with black jeans and a grey linen blazer to complete your fun office look. As for shoes, your sneakers will be enough to offer comfort throughout the day. 

Pay attention to accessories

Whether it is a pantsuit or a formal pencil skirt with crisp shirts, wrong selection of accessories can ruin the entire look. Picking the right trinkets is imperative to make a subtle statement and highlight your refined taste. Going ballistics with accessories will not create a positive impression. Chuck statement and beaded neckpieces, say no to dangling earrings, and a definite no to multi-layered charmed bracelets. 

When dressing for work, less is more. A sleek watch is enough to beautify your hands. If you work in an office that allows casual dress code, then you can deck up as a college student with several rings and chunky earrings. Maintaining a balance will always enhance your beauty, without overshadowing any piece.

Select shoes carefully

Even if you don’t need to run around in the office, investing in a pair of good shoes is mandatory. Men must opt for formal office shoes. It is safe to play with colors like black, deep and light brown and tan. These hues complement all attire colors. 

Women can pick between high heels, kitten heels or box heels. Under no circumstance must any employee come to the office in flip-flops. No matter how beautiful the shoe looks, if it is uncomfortable, it should not be purchased. 

5. Casual Office Dress Code

Though professional dress code is somewhat rigid, there are some offices and startups, which have a relaxed take on office wear. Employees can show up in any dress as long as they are not distasteful. 

The main mantra is to be comfortable in the attire. From comfortable jeans to linen shirts, from jumpsuits to T-shirts, you can wear any casual outfit. As for shoes, both flats and heels will be accepted. 

Summing Up

Admist the hype of emerging technologies and startups growing like mushrooms, there has been a shift in the professional dress code around different businesses. Whereas there is an increasing call for more casual attire to dress to work, you should always keep in mind that a truly professional dress style will have to be formal and above all not exaggerate. 

This article highlights the dos and dont's of your work outfit and how you should go about to impress your colleagues and supervisors. It may not be the case at all situations, however it has been found that an employee's outfit to work contributed to his advancement to a higher post. 

Of course ultimately, no matter what the professional dress code you choose or are required to follow, you must keep in mind that the clothes you wear should be also practical and make you feel comfortable where possible as you want to both feel and look good at your work space.

*by andreascy*

7 Fashion Accessories To Lift Up Your Style Quotient

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description : 

Accessories will complete the look that you desire to flaunt. A dress, without matching shoes, neckpieces, and bags, looks like a painting devoid of colors. With the right fashion accessories, you can either dress up or dress down a particular outfit. 

These trinkets will also highlight your taste and help to create a distinct style statement. In case you lack the eye to a new dress with appropriate accessories in your mind, then take the assistance of the experts. 

Watches: Keep Pace With Fashion Trends 

The advent of smartphones has eliminated the need of wearing a watch on your wrist. But how often do you see a man or woman without one? Almost never! Whether it is a casual occasion or a formal event, people love wearing expensive watches. These timepieces are no longer used to keep track of time. Instead, these act as accessories. 

A sleek watch polishes your outfit and your personality at the same time. It shows you are capable of striking a balance between being funny and serious. If you are in a casual and relaxed mood, then ditch the boring black and brown leather straps for brightly printed and patterned straps. Some watches come with interchangeable straps. So, you can sport a new look every day. 

Scarves and Jackets for Extra OOMPH

Power suits, skirts, basic tops or jumpsuits – no matter what you are wearing, a colorful scarf can add life to the attire immediately. Monochromatic or bright scarves, will attract focus to your face, instead of the top. It will add an extra layer. They are a mark of sophistication and charm. If you are not a fan of tying something around your neck, then jackets will save you from fashion disasters. 

For summers, you can depend on linen, cotton or silk jacket, while woolen overalls will keep you safe from the winter chills. Jackets are available in bright as well as subtle hues, to complement the dress underneath. When in doubt, throw a coat over your clothing, and you will look elegant instantly. 

Shoes for Comfort and Class

Shoes offer much more than comfort. Classy shoes are a mark of an elegant individual. People pay attention towards the clothes and accessories. But only a knowledgeable person knows that a true blue aristocrat will own shiny and well-maintained shoes. All your efforts to look like a million dollars will go down the drain if your shoes don’t go with the dress. Flats and platforms shoes offer supreme comfort. Tie-up shoes and Greek sandals look amazing with casual dresses. 

If you want to make a style statement or look rich at a formal event, then it is imperative to ditch the flats and put on high heels. In case, someone is not comfortable walking in high heels; she can opt for smaller box or kitten heels as well. Heels offer an excellent posture to the body and make you look taller instantly. Make sure you have bright colors, blacks, browns and nude colored footwear in your shoe closet. 

Hats for Every Season

If you think that hats were a thing of the past, then you need to take a quick trip to the race course. The rich and famous like to wear hats even today. It highlights their status but also shields them from the harsh rays of the sun. The members of British royal family and aristocrats are never seen without hats on special occasions. 

Covering the head, was a mark of sophistication in early days. Berets are famous among French women, while British ladies opt for elaborate hats. If you want an extra edge, then wearing fedora, boater, cartwheel or floppy hats will do the trick. Boater, cartwheel and floppy hats are available in different colors and patterns and look amazing with jumpsuits, rompers, shorts, skirts and other casual dresses. 

Get Some Bling on With Jewelry

There was never a shortage of trinkets in the market. Precious metals and costly rocks not only enhanced the beauty but also showcased the status of the person. Gold, silver, platinum and white gold are some popular metals, used for making trinkets. If you are looking for affordable options, then German silver and artificial metals will also do the trick. 

There is an unending option for men and women who desire to adorn their bodies with ornaments. Multi-layered neckpieces, chunky statement necklaces, small and big earrings, beaded and charm bracelets, middle eastern headpieces, strings of pearls are some common pieces, which can help in making a smile dress look expensive. In recent fashion events, models have been seen sporting midi and layered finger rings. Cuff bracelets are also in vogue. One can incorporate these to dress up or dress down appropriate attire.

Bags! Bags! And More Bags!

Will you ever leave the house without a bag or purse? Bags are essential accessories, which bring out the beauty of any dress. Not all bags will complete all kinds of attires. A wrong pick can mar the beauty of the outfit. The market has been flooded with various kinds of bags. One can pick tote bags, shoulder bags, sling bags, bucket bags, fanny packs, transparent plastic bags, purses, and clutches. 

Bags made of cotton and jute; with thread work are new additions to the fashion world. They are popularly seen in India and Middle Eastern nations. They suit the traditional outfits as well as solid colored dresses.

Conclusion 

If you have a plain jumpsuit, then these bags can add a dash of color and character to the outfit. Clutches made of silk or metal complement dresses, while tote bags offer a casual look if you want to step out in basic T-shirts, shorts or rompers. Smaller vanity bags will make your getup look elegant. 

*by andreascy*

Emotional Intelligence and Leadership: The Importance of Leading by Emotions

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description :

"A good leader leads the people from above them. A great leader leads the people from within them." - M. D. Arnold

Effective leaders share their own unique qualities. Emotional intelligence (EQ or EI) holds a prominent place out of them. In fact, emotional intelligence has been identified as one of the prerequisites for business success in the 21st century.

What Exactly is Emotional Intelligence? 

The term introduced in 1990 by Salovey and Mayer refers to the “accurate appraisal and expression of emotions in oneself and others and the regulation of emotion in a way that enhances living” (Mayer, DiPaolo & Salovey, 1990, p. 772). In other words emotional intelligence is defined as the act of understanding, knowing, overcoming stress in the moment, responding to emotions and being aware of how your actions or words affect others. This sort of qualities would assist you to perceptive in tune with your emotions and developing is crucial for understanding, empathize and negotiate with other people.

When it comes to leadership, emotional intelligence can be described in five different attributes. They include effective communication, relationship management, empathy, self-management and self-awareness. Natural born leaders are thought to share these attributes whilst aspiring leaders should pay special attention towards the aforementioned attributes if they are to develop a sufficient level of emotional intelligence. 

It is critical for leaders to tackle EQ since a leader who lacks emotional intelligence will have difficulty to gauge the needs of employees and the public in an effective manner. Furthermore, leaders who act without emotional intelligence would run into hassle in the long run. For example, some leaders tend to spontaneously react to different situations in life without filtering their emotions. Such a stance can create serious issues in relationships and negotiations which can prevent from closing deals. Therefore, it is extremely important for the great leaders to be self-aware about themselves. They need to have a clear understanding about their verbal as well as non-verbal communication and attitude. This approach could create a tremendous impact on their lives in the long run. 

In order to understand the core of emotional intelligence that is required for effective leadership, the below elements are crucial. 

1. Effective Communication 

Effective communication can be considered as one of the key elements of emotional intelligence. If you are a leader, you should know how to appropriately communicate with whoever you deal with. Lack of effective communication can often lead to misunderstandings. Effective communication is not just focusing on your words. Recent studies have indicated that only 7% of effective communication comes from words. The remaining 93% comes from body language and tone. 

Misunderstandings can be considered as one of the major reasons behind issues that take place among individuals. For example, if you fail to communicate effectively at your workplace, you would have to experience confusion among employees along with bitterness and frustration. On the other hand, effective communication has the potential to strengthen the relationships at your workplace. When the employees have a clear understanding about their specific role within the company, they would stick to their job description. It could benefit the company at the end of the day. 

2. Relationship Management 

If you are distracted, it will most likely be a hard task to establish deep connections with other people. Almost all employees will have their own families as well as other obligations. However, it is important to maintain productive and healthy relationships in order to achieve higher emotional intelligence at the end of the day. In other words, leaders should have the ability to manage relationships properly to move a team forward in the desired direction. 

3. Compassion and Empathy 

Empathy can simply be defined as the ability to put yourself in someone else’s shoes. Then you will be able to get a better understanding on how others feel. You will even manage to predict how others react in different situations. When a leader has empathy, he/she would be able to open up the capacity to feel compassion. This can create the desire within leaders to help others. In other words, leaders with compassion and empathy will be able to relate to others in an effective manner. 

4. Self-Regulation 

Self-regulation can be considered as another important element that leaders should have in order to gain a high level of emotional intelligence. Self-regulation is simply defined as discipline. This involves redirecting or controlling all your disruptive emotions which in return will allow to adapt accordingly to different circumstances and guide your team in the right direction. As a result, you end up with positive results at the end of the day. Leaders do not afford to lose their coolness under any circumstance. Instead, they should remain calm and act completely natural in such instances. This will allow to communicate the company objectives to relevant team members in a clear manner. Concurrently, it is a strategy that will help to ease things and contribute to stay away from frustration. 

5. Self-Assessment 

Self-assessment is the ability to figure out your own values, weaknesses, strengths, emotions and drivers. It also rotates around the ability to understand how those values can create an impact on others around. Therefore, leaders with emotional intelligence should have this quality. Without the ability for self-reflection, we would not be able to figure out who we are. In addition, we would not have been able to realize where we fall short, what we are good at and why we make certain decisions in life. In order to achieve your maximum potential, you need to be confident about who you are. As a leader, you need to have a clear idea about your good and bad qualities. Then you will be able to use them accordingly in your day to day life, especially when dealing with other people and constantly having to make important decisions. 

As it appears from the previous, it is important for a leader to have innate highly developed emotional intelligence. The aforementioned can directly contribute towards the emotional intelligence of a leader which in turn can contribute to eliminate mistrust among team members, and maximize productivity in the workplace. If you do not feel you naturally exhibit high levels of emotional intelligence, you should not despair since there are ways to improve your emotional intelligence. Unfortunately, emotional intelligence is so complex that it cannot be simply acquired through reading a book or attending a seminar. However, when put on a practical basis, within a rapidly demanding daily routine such as is the case in a fast-paced growing company, for a person to learn EI requires: team-based learning, practice, and accountability. 

The following infographic draws on the work of Gordon Tredgold and provides with some further practical tips on how to improve your emotional intelligence and become a better leader.

 

Source: Inc.com

Conclusively, building on your emotional intelligence is considered as an excellent investment done towards the future of your business. It is incremental to strive for empathetic, thoughtful, responsive and reflexive leadership, be open to conversation and listening to others’ needs as well as be willing to present yourself as vulnerable and put yourself in others’ shoes. Such attitude will lead to a positive environment where employees will be inspired to bring out their best self.

DON'T MISS THIS READ: How to Dress for Success

Make sure to follow us on X for your regular dose of news around tech, business inspiration, and more!

*by andreascy*

There Is a Shirt Out There for Everyone

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description :

Everyone comes in different sizes. It can be hard to find the right size shirts for you, especially if you differentiate of the “standard” male. Maybe you are a tall man with long arms that don’t fit into any regular fit dress shirts for men. Or maybe you rather go with classic fit shirts. Nothing wrong with a little class.

You will need a good shirt to look good for work or that dinner, so better get one now. Want to know more on what to look for?

Regular Fit Dress Shirts for Men

Regular fits dress shirts for men are a little wider around the waist and the sleeves. They leave plenty of room for you to move around in. They are and stay comfortable, even on those long work days. You have them in all sizes, colors and patterns. A few fine choices to wear are a light blue and white striped shirt for example. Wear a regular fit dress shirt when you are up for a work day at the office. 

Men’s Extra Long Sleeve Shirts

Are your arms too long for normal shirts? Time to get some men’s extra long sleeve shirts! You can find both slim fit and regular fit shirts with extra long sleeves. Regular fit shirts are by far the most comfortable, though! Just like normal regular fit dress shirts you have a very broad choice in sizes, colors and patterns for those shirts with extra long sleeves. Go for something a little bright and wear a shirt with pink, green and white in a checkered pattern. Cheerful and yet subtle. 

Classic Fit Shirt

Do you like it a little authenticity? Classic fit shirts have just the right amount of class and give off an authentic feel. Making it possible for you to look your best. They are comfortable and roomy and men have been wearing this kind of shirt for centuries and they have always looked good in them. Wear a classic fit shirts when going out to a romantic dinner with your wife, a meeting with your boss or when you are meeting new clients. A classic fit shirt is also perfect if you are giving a speech or an elevator pitch. Try wearing a nice classy white shirt with a black or dark blue tie.

The Best Colors and the Best Patterns

It’s not enough to just wear the right shirt. It has to have the right color and pattern for whatever you are about to do. You can’t go to a dinner with clients in a murky green blazer with a mustard yellow striped shirt. That is just not the right choice, especially not when you are trying to dress to impress. No, what you want is something quite the opposite. Just a regular day at the office? Wear a shirt with a light color. Think pastels or white. Shirts with just one color or a pattern of either checkers or stripes are the best. 

Meeting with the boss? Go classy with a white shirt and a black or dark colored tie. Don’t wear a grey shirt, as those are a little bleak, but you could definitely go for a grey blazer. When you have a meeting with your boss nine out of ten times you will want to impress him or her. Keep that in mind when picking what shirt to wear in the morning. 

Got a fancy gala to attend? Go for wealthy colors like purple and red, or for the classical colors like black, white and grey. Even better is to mix it up a little. A grey blazer can never go wrong and with a beautiful bright, but subtle purple or red shirt underneath it you will steal the show. For those of us who don’t like to stand in the spotlights it is an option to go for a black blazer, with a nice white and cream colored striped shirt and a black tie. 

Measurements 

Every shirt has a certain standard measurement. Get to know what your measurements are so you can find the right shirt of whatever type you like for you. It might be a good idea to get your shirts hand tailored for your measurements so you will be able to wear a shirt that fits you perfectly, no matter what shape or size you are. There is a perfect shirt out there for everyone. Now it’s time to find yours!

WHAT TO READ NEXT: The Best Men’s Dress Shirts to Wear this Summer

THE OFFICIAL ANDREASCY will tell you what's happening around the world, on what you care about. If you like it, just 'spread the love'. 😊😉

*by andreascy*

The Best Men’s Dress Shirts to Wear this Summer

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description :

Don’t you love the summer? Lovely hot weather, a holiday in sight, being able to barbecue at night. Summers are amazing, even when you’re at the office. So dress for the occasion with a few of the amazing men’s dress shirts we have coming up for you.

Don’t worry, you can roll up those sleeves when it gets too hot during those long summer days. Wear some regular men’s dress shirts, go amazing with Thomas Masons shirts or wear an exclusive handmade men’s slim fit dress shirt!

Men’s Dress Shirts 

Your office attire isn’t ready until you have a great men’s dress shirt to wear. The options are limitless. Go with or without a pattern, in all colors of the rainbow or just one. Dare to be different and go with a striped shirt with bright colors like pink, purple or green. Great for those summer days. Or go dark and keep it classic with colors like dark blue mixed with black stripes, a dark purple shirt under a nice quality blazer or a red shirt with a gorgeous black tie with gold stripes. Those are especially good options for a dinner with colleagues in the warm evenings. 

Thomas Mason Shirts 

Thomas Mason shirts are definitely a great choice for this summer. Want to know why? Thomas Mason is a great, over 275 years old company that offer amazing quality fabrics, with great original and sometimes even eccentric patterns and colors. Their fashion designers get inspiration for their shirts from anywhere and everywhere, like for example the English landscape, an album of the beatles and of course from the themes that the season bring with them. They are loyal to their British heritage and that is something you can definitely see when looking at the work they did when they made in collaboration with J. Crew. Thomas Mason shirts have an authentic, classical feel that not many brands out there have, plus they make sure to use a wide variety of colors and patterns. That is what makes this brand a must have and must wear around the office this summer. 

Want Something Exclusive this Summer? 

A few amazing handmade men's slim fit dress shirts shouldn’t be missing from your wardrobe. Handmade shirts give you an exclusive one of a kind edge. Get it hand tailored exactly to your measurements so it’s comfortable for those long summer days when you need to be anything but uncomfortable. Have a beautifully handmade slim fit shirt will also give you that extra boost of confidence you might need for that meeting with your boss, investors or clients. Or maybe to finally ask that girl out you have been wanting to ask out on a date for a long time. She won’t be able to resist you in a handmade men’s slim fit dress shirt! 

What Colors Should you Wear this Summer?

The colors you wear are very important. There is a lot of scientific research that shows that our brains associate colors and emotion. For example: White gives people a very neutral, sterile feeling, while blue gets people relaxed, focussed and awake. Why do you think Facebook and Twitter are blue? That is some fine psychology at play right there. You can use these proven scientific facts to influence your clients, colleagues and even your boss a little. Wear a shirt in a certain colour to make them associate you with a certain feeling. Of course, they won’t suddenly start to like you if you wear a certain colour, but it will get you in the right direction. And, you can use it to influence yourself, too! Got the feeling you are trapped in a cubicle too much? Wear a green shirt. Your brain has associated the colour green with the great outdoors, so by seeing the colour green you will immediately start to feel way less trapped. This may come in handy when it’s a hot summer day and you’re working inside an office. 

Match It Up 

Match your clothes up. Not just the colours and the patterns of your shirt, but also things like ties and blazers. This summer ties don’t just have to be made of silk. Try a denim tie for a change! Looks great, especially with a nice white or dark blue and white striped Thomas Mason shirt. Wear a nice and classy blazer every once in a while. 

YOU WILL LIKE THIS: How to Dress for Success

 This summer will bring a lot of opportunities and if you look right you will be ready to take them on!

*by andreascy*

You can't Attend a Business Meeting Without the Right Shirt

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description :

Everyone has to attend a business meeting every once in a while. It’s important to make a good impression during every meeting, but you can’t do that without the right shirt. 

Whether it’s a meeting with your boss, your colleagues or new clients, if you don’t wear the right clothes you are probably not making a very good impression. It’s time to change that!

What Shirt Should You Wear During What Meeting? 

Each type of meeting has their own “dress code” so to speak. The clothes you wear, and especially your shirt tells the people you have a meeting with a lot about your attitude towards your work. So, what shirt belongs to what meeting? 

1. A Meeting With the Boss 

It’s time to look as professional as possible. Think Van laack shirts in Van Laack tailor fit. These shirts have an amazing professional feel about them. The Van Laack shirts are completely tailored to fit you smoothly to give you the perfect professional look you need during a meeting with your boss. 

Examples of what to wear: A blue or white shirt with a matching tie. Also consider wearing a blazer in a matching colour. Match a light blue shirt, with a black or grey tie and a dark blue blazer. Or go classic with a white shirt, a black tie and a black blazer. 

2. A Meeting With Your Colleagues 

The number one reason to dress like a professional is so other people perceive you as a professional. Keep this in mind when you have a meeting with your colleagues, because their impression of you matters when it comes to your work relationship. Dress like a professional, but don’t overdo it. Don’t make it too flashy. 

Examples of what to wear: Go with the flow of your colleagues. Do they wear business casual then you should, too. Professional? Wear a tie. Unlike in meetings with your boss a little more colour is appreciated! 

3. A Meeting With Your Clients 

Dress for success and make sure you don’t differentiate too much of what your clients wear. Are they in suits, then you should be as well. Do they wear business casual shirts? You might want to do that, too. This helps to influence the way your clients feel when they have a meeting with you. 

Examples of what to wear: Go for cheerful colours if the dress code of your office allows this. Think something like a white and soft yellow striped shirt, or maybe one with blue plaid. Go casual with short sleeves or stay with long sleeves. Anything is possible. 

4. A Job Interview 

This is a business meeting, too, and as such you need to dress to the occasion. You want to have a good first impression and as you probably know people judge a book by its cover. You need to look professional, like you can handle anything the new job will throw in your way. Especially when you are applying for a job at a large firm. Maybe it’s time to get a handmade men's regular fit dress shirt that will look extremely well on you with a tie and a blazer.

Examples of what to wear: Just as the meeting with a boss you should think grey, white, black and (dark) blue colours as these give you a professional look. This depends on the tone of the company, of course, but especially large firms prefer that their employees dress according to the sometimes unwritten dress code so it’s good to immediately start off on the right foot. 

5. The “Casual” Companies 

As you’ve probably noticed the aforementioned meetings are all focused on companies that have a few strict rules on how their staff should dress. But, what about companies that focus on design and other creative artworks, or small businesses? What do you wear during a meeting of a company that isn’t as strict on dress codes? It’s time to go business casual! Of course this doesn’t go for all small businesses, but most startups and small businesses want to keep that comfortable, familiar feel. Suits just don’t cut it, although a nice dress shirt without a tie might. 

Examples of what to wear: Think about a plaid casual shirt, with for example jeans. Keep it neat and professional, but loosen it up a bit. Roll up those sleeves, keep the top button open. Keep it both casual and professional!

Conclusion

Getting ready for your next business meeting? Then you should look and feel good! Depending on the industry, consider those 5 real life examples that will get you through the meeting. Start dressing for success!

READ ALSO: Tech Gadgets That Make Traveling a Breeze

Do you have any tips? Your help and feedback is always appreciated!

*by andreascy*

Microsoft’s Discovery of the Decade: ‘The Nadella’

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description :

Satya Nadella has been working as the CEO of Microsoft for two years now. Throughout the past two years, he has revolutionized Microsoft. Therefore, people even describe Nadella as the Microsoft’s Discovery of the Decade. The main objective of Nadella is to drive the company forward along with a cloud and mobile focus. The decision he took has created a significant impact behind the success of the software giant. 

Microsoft got the opportunity to feel fresh throughout the past few years under the guidance of Satya Nadella. Some people say that Nadella is running the Steve Ballmer’s Microsoft.Under the guidance of Nadella, Microsoft paid special attention towards protecting Windows. Windows Vista came out during the Ballmer’s period and it was not a success. Even though Vista took a long time to hit the market, the company was not able to cater the expectations of the users. It also created a negative impact on the mobile platform of Microsoft. This fact played a major role behind the popularity of iPhones over Lumia.

As we can see, the plans created by Ballmer are not perfect. However, Nadella has executed some of the plans that were created by Ballmer. He takes a whole new approach when executing these plans in order to deliver positive results to the company. Taking Microsoft Office for iPad can be considered as a perfect example.

The strategic vision of Satya Nadella has contributed a lot towards the success of Microsoft throughout the past two years. Microsoft was there on every desktop, but it was not so popular on mobile devices. Nadella noticed the increasing popularity of mobile devices, so he took necessary measures to make Windows popular in the mobile industry. Therefore, Office was released to Android tablets, Apple iPads and even Raspberry Pi devices. At the moment, Office is a popular application that can be found in these devices.

Nadella did not abandon windows. During the Windows 10 Technical Preview release, he said that he has very big hopes and aspirations on the Windows operating system. He dreams about having people want Windows to choose Windows. In addition, Nadella took necessary measures to give life to very capable versions of Microsoft Office. Office has been the greatest selling point of Microsoft throughout the past few years. 

Satya Nadella is a person who is equipped with a tactical vision. In fact, he does not make short term plans. He thinks few years ahead and creates the plans accordingly to deliver positive results with measurable outcomes. Moreover, he can be defined as a person who communicates very efficiently. He can convince his ideas to someone and grab another person’s ideas in an effective manner through communication. 

As you already know, Satya Nadella has guided Microsoft in the correct track under his leadership. The company has seen many different changes in its board level throughout the past two years. Ballmer left his position and Nadella did not discover any crocodile tears from the people who stayed with the company. Few months later, some other board members resigned and they were replaced by suitable candidates by Satya Nadella. However, the senior leaders did not change under the guidance of Nadella. Bill Gates is supposed to devote more time towards the success of Microsoft after his step down. However, it didn’t happen as expected and Satya Nadella got the responsibility of driving the company. Nadella was able to manage everything accordingly and he did not face any hassle. His excellent leadership qualities helped him throughout the difficult times. The secret behind the success of Nadella was that he took necessary measures to attract individuals and maintain an excellent inner circle. This helped the entire top management to stay away from frustration.

Satya Nadella is a person who identified the exact difference in between Windows Mobile and Windows Mobile. It seems a bit confusing. Windows Mobile is the name that is given to the operating system, which powers up Windows smartphones. This operating system can also be found in Intel and ARM based tablets. However, Windows Mobile has a bigger scope. As per Nadella, Lumia phones, Surface tablets, the Band and the HoloLens are expected to be a part of the Windows mobile ecosystem in the future. In addition, the CEO is extremely concerned about developing stable services and applications to be run on Windows mobile devices. In the world we live, people prefer to use their mobile devices over personal computers. However, Windows smart mobile devices are not popular among them, when compared to iOS and Android devices. Satya Nadella has the vision of making Windows mobile popular among smart device users who live in every corner of the world.

 

Satya Nadella is also concerned about cross platforms. Once he stated that Microsoft will not be developing services and software for the platforms of other companies. Instead, he is concerned about developing applications that are compatible with cross-platforms and making them a part of the Microsoft’s DNA. 

Microsoft has started focusing on bundling after the supervision of Satya Nadella. Nadella wants to bundle up all the services and applications that are offered by Microsoft. The business apps developed by the software giant became very successful when they were packaged as the Office Suite. The release of Office 365 in many different suites can be considered as a great example to prove the above mentioned fact. 

Last but not least, Satya Nadella is concerned about being ahead of the customer demand. They have done big mistakes in the past by not paying attention towards the demands of the customers. Nadella has understood these issues and he has taken necessary measures to deliver a service that customers really need. Therefore, Nadella can be considered as the best discovery of Microsoft in the decade. 

SEE ALSO: How to Dress for Success

So, what you guys think? Let us know down below in the comments. Please share and help spread the information! 

*by andreascy*

How to Dress for Success

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description :

We all know it’s important to dress for success, especially around the office. The way you dress tells people a lot about how professional you are, what your role is in the company and how serious you take your work. It’s the number one thing people notice during that first impression and therefore it is extremely important to dress the right way. 

Want to know how you can do that? Here are a few business shirts and mens blazers that will get you in the right direction.

Thomas Mason Shirts 

Have you ever heard of Thomas Mason fabrics? We have, and it’s definitely one of our favorite brands. Want to know why? Thomas Mason offers a wide arrange of fabrics that feel professional, authentic and above all classy. All important for the workplace. Together with J.Crew they have designed a ton of great and amazing shirts that range from clear and classy blue to cheery red, green and white stripes. All Thomas Mason shirts are influenced by certain themes, people and places. For example; A few fabrics of their Autumn/winter 2014 line were influenced by the Beatles and the English landscape. 

What does your business shirt say about you 

There is a pattern and color for everyone and whatever shirt you go with tells a lot about who you are and how serious and professional you really are. 

Colors:

Pastel colors - Pastel colors are the most popular colors used for business shirts. Pastel colors give off a relaxed and professional vibe that’s especially important if you work in an otherwise chaotic environment. This also counts for white shirts. 

Dark colors - The only time shirts with dark colors really work is if they are either mixed up with some lighter or brighter tones, or during a special occasion like for example a gala, dinner or fundraiser. Dark colored shirts can be very classy, but only on those occasions. 

Bright colors - People who wear shirts with bright colors often want to get noticed and are confident about themselves and their work. If you need to get noticed during an interview or a meeting make sure you wear something that is bright, but at the same time discrete. If you wear colors that are too bright people might start to view you as obnoxious or unprofessional. 

Patterns: 

No pattern - Shirts with no patterns are by far the most popular and professional shirts out there. This is because they offer no distractions and can be mixed and matched with any men's blazers or other accessories, but more on that later. Go for a shirt with no pattern when you want to look like you are a serious professional. 

Stripes - Big stripes, small stripes, blue stripes or white stripes. You can find all different variations of striped shirts. It’s a very common pattern for business shirts after all. A shirt with stripes can be very classy and professional, as long as it’s not all colors of the rainbow. 

Checkered or plaid - Shirts with a checkered or plaid pattern are a little less professional than stripes or a shirt with no pattern at all. However in an environment that allows business casual they are a perfect fit, because of the cheery combinations of colors used in checkered or plaid shirt.

Men's Blazers

Honestly, a nice business shirt is nothing without a tie and a blazer. Men's blazers come in just as many colors and patterns as shirts. You have them in an even black, blue or grey, or with stripes or without them. Anything is possible and by matching a nice grey blazer with for example a few black examples at the hems of the pockets to a white shirt you will definitely be well on your way to dress for success. 

So what do I choose when I want to dress for success...

You choose clothes you are both comfortable in and that are appropriate for the work you do. If you work at a bank, for example, it’s probably not the best idea to go in checkers. Instead go with some classy grey, dark blue, white or black tones. Do you work at an office that allows business casual and you are confident of yourself? Go with something with bright colors and a striped or plaid pattern. When you dress for success you want to get noticed, and the way you do this is completely up to you!

YOU MIGHT LIKE: Five Keys To Launching A Startup

I'd be happy to hear from you in the comments! Let me know down below what you'd like to read in our upcoming stories. Stay well!

*by andreascy*