Fix Your Professional Image

  We have all heard the saying, “there is no second chance to make a good first impression”.

  Your behavior and appearance create a powerful image that affects how patient’s, the public, management and co-workers view you and nursing as a whole.  To project a professional image, evaluate your persona and try to view yourself through the other person’s eyes.  At work, keep in mind that your demeanor, style of dress, speech and body language can undermine or can establish your credibility as a professional.

  When you are not at work your image also has to be considered.  How often have you noticed someone in the grocery store or walking down the street and wondered about the person’s occupation?  If the individual is neatly dressed, personable and confident, you might think she is a business executive.  If she appears sloppy, surly, and hesitant would you think of her in the same position?

  Let us flip that scenario and consider how we would come across.  Would that stranger be impressed or not impressed to discover that you are a nurse?

  To solidify a professional image, the experts suggest that you examine your appearance, verbal and non-verbal behaviors and written communications, all of which influence how we are perceived by others.