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Representing the Paralegal Profession Well: 10 Ways to Dress to Impress

By Lynne DeVenny

Lawyerist.com recently posted ?Look Like a Lawyer: Dress to Impress in 2011,? which has plenty of good advice for paralegals and other legal professionals who want a competitive business advantage, too.

I think it?s easy for paralegals, especially those who work behind the scenes and have little contact with the public, to think their appearance doesn?t matter as much as a lawyer?s, but it does. That old adage ?dress for the job you want? is solid advice (thanks, Mom). You never know who you?ll meet during the day, in or out of the office. That person may be the catalyst for your growth as a paralegal, whether it?s advancing in responsibility and compensation at your current job - or landing your dream job.



Here are 10 ways to dress to impress, courtesy of Lawyerist.com, AskMen, Corporette and Ms JD :

I love Merona's $24.99 Trouser Jean from Target.

1. If you?re going to err, overdress rather than underdress for your job.
2. Wear clothes that fit well and are well-proportioned for your body.
3. Avoid outdated clothing, accessories and hairstyles that add years to your real age.
4. Don?t overdo the jewelry.
5. Avoid makeup that is distracting instead of subtle and flattering.
6. Make sure you?re well-groomed, including your fingernails.
7. Go easy on perfumes and colognes (especially in close quarters).
8. Make sure your shoes are clean and not too worn-out looking for work.
9. Think sophisticated on Casual Friday; wear dark wash trouser-jeans if your firm allows jeans.
10. Carry a high-quality purse and/or briefcase.

Sources:  Lawyerist.com; AskMen; Corporette; Ms.JD

Full post as published by Practical Paralegalism on January 19, 2011 (boomark / email).