Many times, we work so hard to craft the perfect presentation that we forget how important it is to present ourselves. Maintaining a professional and approachable appearance may not be quite half the battle when it comes to public speaking, but it could be the difference between the metaphorical foot in the door and a real, live door in the face.
“For the apparel oft proclaims the man,
And they in France of the best rank and station
Are of a most select and generous chief in that.”
– Shakespeare, “Hamlet”
“Clothes make the man,” Polonius warns, in so many words, to his son Laertes before sending him on his journey to France. Now, Polonius is a big talker, and not everyone takes him seriously, but he’s influential enough to have risen to the position of chief counselor to the king; he does know a thing or two. He knows that perception is extremely important, especially to the French, and he’s telling Laertes that, basically, he needs to be meticulous about personal style.
The parallel here is obvious. You, the intrepid presenter, are being pumped full of maxims and guidance and shipped off to be scrutinized by a highly critical audience. Eventually, you’ll be judged on the merits of your contributions, but the first things your peers will notice about you are the things they can immediately sense: chiefly, your appearance. If you’ve taken time to prepare and heeded Polonius’ advice, you may very well be approved and accepted. Then, and only then, will you be granted their respect.
Ok, maybe it’s not that dire, but having good hygiene and professional dress is called being “presentable” for a reason!
Here are a few of our favorite tips on how to look and feel your best when you’re up on stage:
– Does stage fright make you sweat? Thicker undershirts may help, but oddly enough, exercise might too.
– Bad breath can sap your confidence, but it can be easily combated with the right tools and diet.
– Ties have a strange history, but they may be a necessary evil depending on your audience.
– However, the lucky among us may be able to get away with business casual attire.
– Whichever style of shoe you ultimately choose should provide proper support.
– Finally, you absolutely must keep yourself hydrated for peak performance.
Of course, Polonius later sends a spy after Laertes because he doesn’t trust him, but we promise to better respect your boundaries! These tips are all yours, to take out into the world (including France) and use or not use as you see fit. But we think even the Bard himself would agree that it would be a tragedy for you to not live up to your potential!
Additional Resources:
What Not to Wear to a Presentation
Presentation Tip: Dress for Your Brand
Beat Fabric Wrinkles Before a Presentation
