Q: I share an office with someone who’s messy, and I fear it makes us both look bad. What can I do?
A: Unfortunately, you will be perceived as a contributing factor because you share the space. Since the appearance and organization of your office sends a message to others about how you handle the details of your work, it is best to nip this situation in the bud. Rather than send an e-mail or leave a note, speak directly to your office mate. Be careful not to assign blame. Just state the facts that the office looks messy and that you think it reflects poorly on the both of you. Suggest a cleaning schedule you both can live with. If need be, offer to help your office mate with an initial cleanup. Lead by example and keep your area and any common space as neat and clean as possible. Escalate the matter to a boss or supervisor only if absolutely necessary.
—Carol Davidson, StyleWorks of Union Square
Q: Can I wear the same suit to different job interviews at the same company?
A: Absolutely. A suit is the best choice for an interview, hands down. And if you have only one, you should definitely wear it again, no matter if you are interviewing with the same company or even the same individual. As an image consultant, I teach my clients how to create a multitude of outfits from a few key pieces. You can easily create a new look by wearing your basic suit with a different blouse or shirt color and mixing up the accessories. Ladies, try wearing a different necklace or adding a colorful scarf. Men can choose a tie with a different pattern or add a smart-looking pocket square to their ensemble. Unless your suit is a conspicuous color or print, no one will remember it was the same one you wore before. Most important to interviewers—and what they will remember—are your confidence and communication skills. Once you land the job, you can celebrate by buying a new suit.
—Kelly Machbitz, owner, Totalfashionmakeover.com, Clearwater, Fla.
Q: No matter how carefully I pack, my clothes always get wrinkled. Any advice?
A: If you find an article of clothing is wrinkled when you arrive at your hotel, run a hot shower and hang the item close by. The steam from the shower will naturally press your garment. Wrinkle-resistant sprays are also helpful and convenient, as they are small enough to stash in a purse or briefcase. If all else fails, try asking the concierge. Some hotels offer pressing services, while others supply the room with an iron and board.
—Carol Davidson, StyleWorks of Union Square
Q: What’s a polite way to escape from a nonstop talker at a reception or cocktail function?
A: When you want to break away from a conversation, be friendly but firm. Simply extend your hand for a handshake and say, "Mary, I have to speak to a colleague now. It was a pleasure meeting and talking with you." You can now take your leave without having offended anyone. If you feel you may want to reconnect with this individual at a later date, you might also suggest exchanging business cards.
—Kelly Machbitz, owner, Totalfashionmakeover.com, Clearwater, Fla.
Q: How can I avoid wrinkles in my clothes when I pack for business trips?
A: Both an overstuffed suitcase and one with too much empty space will lead to wrinkles, so pack lightly but tightly. Place heavy items (shoes, toiletries, etc.) on the bottom so they don’t shift, crush, and wrinkle your clothing. Shirts, skirts, and pants can be folded, stacked, and packed in the center of your suitcase. By putting tissue paper in between layers, you will reduce friction and wrinkles. Knits and more casual items (T-shirts, polo shirts, jeans, etc.) as well as pajamas should be rolled and placed around the sides of your suitcase. On top, place face down any items on hangers. Leave them in plastic dry cleaning bags to reduce creases. Look for travel-friendly items (folders, cubes, compressors, etc.) designed to make packing more organized and wrinkle-free.
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