As up-and-coming business men and women, we all need to be well prepared for the business world. Knowing how to dress and act are seemingly straightforward but everyone should know what is appropriate so that you make positive first impressions.

Understand the difference between business professional and business casual.
First impressions are a vital part to networking and making connections, and first impressions can rely heavily on your personal appearance.

For women, a suit jacket or cardigan can be a classy look with khaki pants, nice trousers or fingertip-length skirt or suit pants or slacks. If you choose to wear a skirt or dress, be sure it is extended to the knees. Be sure to wear solid colors, such as black, white, grey, brown or blue. Flats, heels or low heels are acceptable.

For men, be sure to wear a suit, sports jacket or vest with a collared or polo shirt and suit pants or nice trousers. A tie is optional. Be sure to wear a solid color, such as black, white, grey, brown or blue. Dress shoes are a must.

Have an enticing elevator pitch. Your elevator pitch is your own personal brand introduction. Your pitch is how you introduce yourself to people in a professional manner and setting. Be yourself and be creative! This is a great way for you to make connections with people that you do not know. For tips on creating your elevator pitch click here.

handshakeLend a hand to your handshake. If you’re a networking all-star, you’re going to have to meet and greet many other business professionals and you’re going to have to shake their hands. Having a solid, firm, handshake also gives a positive first impression to the interviewer, business superior, or for anyone you are going to meet.

Business People Sitting in an Office Building Having a Meeting

Focus on building relationships and reputation.
Have you ever heard that it’s not always what you know, but who you know? This is a truth in the business world. Although scoring an A+ on that accounting midterm is great, not many business leaders will be asking you what your GPA is. Focus on gaining lasting and genuine relationships with people around you, and at work. You never know which friend of a friend could be hiring you, and if you network effectively you may have the upper hand.

Have a LinkedIn, and use it.
LinkedIn is the Facebook of the professional world. Everyone has it, uses it, and can make connections from having a strong profile. Make use of having your LinkedIn because headhunters are searching through LinkedIn profiles all day in the search of the perfect employer to employee. Who knows, your job search could be as easy as having an amazing LinkedIn profile.

Things this so simple can be overlooked, but be sure to utilize the 5 easy tips above so that you can make a positive impression in the business world!  For more professional tips, click here.