Regular Culpwrit readers over the years will recall I often discuss the topic of dressing for career success. So, I was thrilled to be contacted by an “ally” on this topic — Alicia Webb, who invited me to discuss the topic on her popular blog, The Bright Perspective.
Thanks, Alicia, for your leadership on this important topic. There is no question why you are The Dress Code Diva.
By Alicia Webb
Research shows you have just 60 seconds to make a first impression. Within the first minute of meeting someone for the first time, you are judged on everything from your posture, style and how you present yourself overall. Long before you say a word, you are communicating. For Ron Culp, a public relations veteran and university professor, taking first impressions seriously isn’t optional—it is essential. Especially for young people just entering the work world.
“In both the academic and business world, it is all about impression management. Your first impression is nonverbal communication; it drives how well people are going to listen to you. People are going to treat you differently, with more intention if you come into a situation looking like you gave thought to who you going to be speaking with,” Culp explains.
Whether we realize it or not, how we show up influences how we are perceived, heard, and remembered. A large part of that starts with how we dress.
As a public relations expert, Culp speaks to large groups on a regular basis. In our growing virtual world, a lot of his talks are via Zoom. His biggest pet peeve, people leaving their camera off or dressing in unprofessional, overly casual attire. It gives off the perspective that you aren’t engaged or simply don’t care.
“I think it is disrespectful to show up to meet someone for the first time in hoodie or a college sweatshirt. We’ve all heard the expression, ‘dress for the role you want.’ It may sound a bit cliché, but you should dress to where you aspire in your career,” according to Culp.
While he acknowledges that public relations and other creative industries tend to have more relaxed, casual dress codes that doesn’t mean professionalism should completely disappear.
“I had a candidate show up for a job interview wearing a tank top and flip flops,” he said. “I was the first person she met with; I certainly wasn’t going to have her meet with anyone else presenting herself like that. No one was going to take her seriously.”
For Culp, preparation is key. He says it is always best to research the person or organization you are meeting with. Find out if the environment is formal or business casual before showing up dressed inappropriately.
“The key is to do a little bit of homework, dress for the culture in which you are going to be entering. The first nonverbal impression you make is what makes people want to work with you.”
Impression management isn’t about vanity, it is about respect, intention, and aligning your presence with your personal and professional goals. Your qualifications matter but your presentation is just as valuable. Culp says even outside of work and school settings, presenting yourself appropriately is just as valuable. You never know who is watching and who you might meet.
“I guarantee if you are dressing up in a bar or restaurant, you are going to get the right kind of attention. People will notice you if you come to a meeting prepared for your audience. I think that proper attire is a way of showing confidence and setting mindset.”
Culp says it is always best to go above and beyond.
“My suggestion usually is to exceed expectations for your attire. You will never offend anyone by being overdressed. They will take it as a sign of respect, even if the interviewer is wearing a hoodie.”
In a competitive job market, managing your first impression isn’t superficial, it is strategic. How you present yourself can open doors, build credibility, and set the tone for every opportunity that follows. Sometimes, the smallest details, a pressed jacket, or simply turning your camera on can make a big difference. In a world that continues to grow more casual, choosing to present yourself with care can set you apart from everyone else. The way you show up may not tell your whole story, but it determines whether people are ready and willing to listen to it.
Alicia Webb, also known as The Dress Code Diva, is a Chicago-based public relations consultant and dress code aficionado. A passionate storyteller, she believes everyone deserves to live their absolute best life with confidence, intention, and style.