Dress for Success or an Afternoon Read

July 2024

I worked for a gentleman who was always well-dressed at work. After I graduated college, my personal focus was buying stuff for our new home. It definitely was not about clothing for the office. But Dave always looked good and was always asked to meet with our prospective clients.

One day, while I was away from the office at lunch, Dave dropped off a present for me. A copy of the book titled 'Dress for Success' was placed on my desk. I was both surprised as well as a little perturbed upon returning to the office.

Admittedly, my choice of a beige jacket, a light pink shirt, and a dark pink striped tie might have prompted Dave’s gift. That day, I realized that this outfit was not in line with the professional image I should be projecting, and it was promptly relegated to the back of my closet.

Dave’s impact was far-reaching – he offered to take me to Neiman Marcus the next day during lunch and shop for ties…not only that, we stopped at Johnston and Murphy, and shoes were the next order of apparel upgrades.

Some might say that this was a little over the top…but looking back on his kindness to me, I see where this gentle nudge helped me see the benefit of dressing for the position I aspired to. It's a good habit that I continue to utilize to this day, a clear sign of the personal growth I've experienced.