Related Posts
Bowl Leader
More Posts
Bowl Leader
Just signed the outside employment form in KPMG onboarding system. I actually wanted to start dabbling in creative writing as a potentially monetizable hobby, but I'm guessing this may pose issues.
Definitely interested in the "exception from this policy may be requested if provision of non-professional services doesn't interfere with one's duties of causes conflict of interest" clause, though. Has anyone been able to get one of those before?
USI Insurance brokerage and consulting - thoughts? A recruiter reached out to me via linked in and I was wondering if anyone had any opinions on this company. They seem to have decent reviews on Glassdoor but I was hoping to get more insight into workload and comp. Thanks in advance! USI
New to Fishbowl?
unlock all discussions on Fishbowl.
Ugh I’m so sorry this is tough to hear coming from your boss and I’m shocked he even said anything as it’s really hard to comment on someone’s appearance. That said I would take it as a gift and ask trusted friends or family what you think he meant and if there’s any truth to it and what you could do to make subtle changes. Are your clothes too big? Wrinkled? Too conservative for your workplace? Can you change your hair? I found as I’ve gotten older I need to keep my hair a bit shorter and styled rather than putting it up. I’ve also changed my makeup to be more natural, clothing is more fitted but not tight and in neutral colors. I save the bold patterns for scarves and don’t shy from statement jewelry vs. the more delicate jewelry I wore earlier. Outside of work I still wear what I want, but at work I wear the work uniform. I am not a fashionista by any means but have done well with Nordstrom stylists. They bring you tons of clothes to try on and you buy what you want. Good luck!
Yes! I came here to recommend the Nordstrom personal stylist, too. Don’t be intimidated of the brand. You can give me them a budget and they’ll work with you. Maybe you just get one or two pieces from them but their tips and recommendations can help expand your wardrobe elsewhere.
Ugh. This can’t feel good. So sorry you had to hear it and now spend the energy analyzing it. I think a lot depends on the general environment: is it young, hip, creative? Are you meeting w clients in specific industries? My best guess is that he said that IN RELATION to a norm that can be identified. You could also ask if there is a colleague who particularly nails it and see what parts of that you can leverage. Don’t let this be heavier or more distracting than it needs to be. Input, thoughtful adaptation, moving on.
I went to a seminar on how to increase your executive presence. It was helpful
How are your equity initiatives as a company? If they are on the weaker side, your executives may need some education on current state equity protections. I was fired from a job years ago for not having a professional appearance, specifically for having textured hair. There are now laws in place that protect women from discrimination because of hair texture and it being seen as “less professional”
I don’t mean to jump to conclusions but just wanted to share a personal experience in case it was relevant.
Since he said it was a "vibe", maybe he's talking more about how you seem non-verbally? I don't think he's referring to what you're wearing or how you look, I think it's more about the professional energy you're exuding. Try to keep smiling more, and just give off more professional non-verbal behaviors and see if it helps.
You did not just say “try to keep smiling more” … is that seriously where we’re at?
I’m sorry - it’s hurtful and certainly could be inappropriate when anyone comments on your appearance. That said, if taking your executive look up a notch is actually important to you, maybe it’s just moving from a more casual look (slacks and sweaters) to a more executive look. I’ve never used a personal shopper at a department store (even a Nordstrom or something like that, doesn’t have to be anything super fancy) and they can help you pick out some things to upgrade your look. Are there other exec women in your office? That said, of course you can also roll your eyes and ignore his advice entirely if you want!
Mentor
Image consultant and executive coach pronto