Many image consultants stress the importance of presenting the total package when seeking employment. I agree that it is of great importance. I would go on to add that it is important in everyday life. Although it is unfair to be judged by appearance, you can tell a bit about where someone may be coming from by it. Changing the appearance is actually a great way to change your circumstances. When you are put together well, you carry yourself with pride and people take notice. The added confidence transfers into the effort you put into your tasks.

Men do not have as many fashion blunders as women. The main item men need to keep in mind is to wear an undershirt. It will smooth away weight and cover hair and perspiration that can be seen under thin fabrics. It adds polish to the look.

As much effort as women attempt to put into their look, they have so many misconceptions about what they perceive as attractive and that not all attention is good. Even before tackling cosmetic issues, the first and most important item is foundation (or lack of). My pet peeve is the thong. I have even seen professional women wearing it on the job. It used to be that the panty line was desired to be hidden. Now, however, if you see one, at least you know they are being worn.

In my opinion, the best garment to invest in is the body shaper. It smooths everything and is the foundation of the total package. A bra and appropriate neckline should also be considered. When people notice you, let it be in admiration of how polished you look.

The concept is the same for cosmetics. A good foundation will set the canvas for the rest of the application. For a natural look, mineral foundation is a good choice. I'm glad it came along. I'm a big fan. Whatever works best for you is fine. At least a tinted moisturizer is a start. A softer look will take you further than a harsh one. Eyeliner is the main area of improvement needed with many women. I've found that using eye shadow rather than a pencil or liquid, is easier to apply.

Nail polish also tells a story. When it is chipped, it may indicate that one is busy and hasn't had time to fix it. It may be better to do without if unable to keep up with it.

Taking the time and effort to include a good foundation in your appearance may bring opportunities you hadn't previously considered. It's worked for me. One day, several years ago, I looked in the mirror and said to myself, "You've got some work to do". I looked worn out. Not bad, it's just that I had struggled for so long, that I hadn't been able to take better care of myself.

Fast forward to after I gained professional employment - I was primping in the mirror and said to myself, "Now that's more like it!" I felt better and have been able to keep up with it since. The biggest mistake I make occasionally is leaving the house without fixing up, thinking, "Oh, I'm just going to the grocery store". It never fails that I run into someone I know. Then I say to myself, "What was I thinking?"

Keep in mind that people are watching you each day. What story to you want people to perceive about you? You never know when a potential employer crosses your path. It may be in the grocery store.