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Good morning,

Knowing the proper attire to wear in a work setting can make a big difference. This article from NALS talks about that and gives us tips on what to wear in the workplace! Check it out below.

“Survivor Tips: What to Wear

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One of the other subjects which gave me pause when I started my first law office job was proper attire and its relationship to confidence and respect.  Yes there is a correlation between the two.  I know what you’re thinking – people shouldn’t be judging me based on what I wear.  Unfortunately, as noble an idea as that is, no one has reached that level of acceptance.

Professional Dress; Limp handshakes; Look me in the eye.

There always will be discussions about what is appropriate dress for the law office and every law office has difference policies.  Hey, I like being comfortable as much as the next person.  I have a couple of pairs of favorite jeans that I would happily wear to work every day.  That doesn’t make it appropriate.

Here is the easy rule to remember: if you want to be treated as a professional, then dress like a professional.  Plumbers wear overalls; personal trainers wear sweats; sales people from trendy boutiques wear fashionable clothes, lawyers wear business suits (especially if they are going to court).  Clothes are part of the “package” that helps market the business.

For the law office, khakis that need hemming, belly tops or flip flops won’t give a great first impression.  Observe what attorneys, other paralegals, and staff are wearing and dress accordingly.  Night club attire is never appropriate in the office; skirts should be a reasonable length; blouses and tops shouldn’t reveal too much skin; slacks should be properly hemmed.  Clothes should fit properly and everything must be clean and pressed.  Although you may think business suits restrictive and uncomfortable, chose professional clothing made from natural fibers and you’ll be amazed at their comfort.  Jewelry or other accessories should be tasteful and compliment the ensemble, not be the one and only thing people notice about you.  You want clients, court personnel, and your office mates to treat you with respect – dress the part.  Because people assess and make assumptions within seconds of seeing you, dress every day as if you are meeting the most important client of the office.  Also consider that you never know when an attorney will want to take you with him/her to court or to an important meeting.  Don’t get caught lacking in this area. You are representing YOUR law firm.

Now, a word or two about shaking hands and making eye contact.  You’re looking professional and are about to meet a client for the first time.  You want to make a good first impression so that the client feels comfortable working with you.

Then get your eyes off the ground (or away from the cell phone) and look them square in the eye and put out your hand in greeting.  Not looking directly at a person, particularly when meeting them for the first time, gives the impression that you are not trustworthy.  Further, the way you shake someone’s hand will instantaneously establish your confidence level which will, in turn, be a clue to the client whether or not to have confidence in you.

A handshake is the customary American greeting.  This is not the time to squeamish about touching another human being.  Unless you or the client are walking germ factories (in which case you both should have the good sense not to shake the other’s hand), your handshake should be firm, not crushing, and, more importantly, not limp as if you loathe to touch them.

That’s pretty much it.   If you want everyone to treat you in a certain way, you’ve got to look the part.  If you want everyone to respect you and have confidence in you and your abilities, then look them in the eye when speaking to them and give them a firm handshake.  It is as simple as that…”