Are Things Different? Yes! How to Build Professional Presence with Strategy, Kindness, and Collective Success in Our Times
The times have changed: some for better, some for worse. Research shows you're not imagining things when you feel like the pressure and stress are higher than ever.
How to Build Professional Presence with Strategy, Kindness, and Collective Success in Our Times
Tatyana Wilson, MA, EDS, SHRM-CP, helps people make great impressions with science-backed approaches and a carefully curated wardrobe of biologically correct colors, good tailoring, and elevated accessories. She writes at www.lightlovescolor.com.
In today's rapidly evolving professional landscape, the strategies for success have changed significantly from those of previous generations. The modern workforce is a unique challenge full of moving targets and contradictions.
I recently watched the Barbie movie (Barbie 2023) with one of my daughters. Gloria’s monologue in it struck a nerve for me because it’s true. (If you haven’t seen the film, I will include a link to the scene at the end of this page.) The expectations placed on women—on all of us, really—are contradictory, exhausting, and keep us constantly striving while still feeling like we’re falling short.
“You have to be thin, but not too thin. And you can never say you want to be thin. You have to say you want to be healthy, but also you have to be thin.”
“You have to have money, but you can't ask for money because that's crass. You have to be a boss, but you can't be mean. You have to lead, but you can't squash other people's ideas.”
“You have to never get old, never be rude, never show off, never be selfish, never fall down, never fail, never show fear, never get out of line.”
These rules are impossible. And yet, they persist.
Ok, the world is not an easy place for most people trying to build a better life. Now what? Knowing that is only the first step.
If we understand the system is unfair in many ways, then we also understand that waiting for fairness is not a strategy. Instead, we take what power we do have and we use it. We build skills, develop presence, work together, and create opportunities—not just for ourselves but for others, too.
Then vs. Now: Shifting Workplace Dynamics
The Global Workplace 2021 Report revealed that workers' daily stress reached a record high in 2020, with 43% of respondents across over 100 countries experiencing stress, up from 38% in 2019. This surge is attributed to factors such as global border closures, workplace shutdowns, and job cuts. weforum.org
Job Security: In the past, long-term employment with a single company was common, offering a sense of stability. Today, with the rise of the gig economy and frequent organizational restructuring, job security has diminished, prompting professionals to continuously adapt and upskill.
Competitiveness: Globalization and technological advancements have intensified competition. Unlike earlier times when competition was localized, today's professionals compete on a global scale, requiring continuous innovation and personal branding.
Raises and Promotions: Previously, tenure often guaranteed progression. Currently, meritocracy prevails, with performance metrics and results driving career advancement. This shift emphasizes the importance of demonstrating value consistently.
Culture and Expectations: Workplace cultures have transitioned from hierarchical to more collaborative and inclusive environments. There's a stronger emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion, reflecting broader societal changes.
Workload and Upward Potential: While technology has automated many tasks, it has also blurred work-life boundaries, leading to increased workloads. However, it has also opened diverse pathways for career advancement beyond traditional ladders.
Gender Gap: Significant strides have been made toward gender equality, but disparities persist. Modern strategies focus on addressing unconscious biases and promoting equitable opportunities across all levels.
The sentiments Gloria expressed perfectly underscore the relentless pressures we face, balancing societal expectations with personal aspirations.
This is exactly why I believe that navigating today's complex professional environment requires a holistic approach. We have to combine professional presence, skill development, personal well-being, and meaningful relationships like never before.
Balancing Multifaceted Demands
To thrive amidst these evolving challenges, we should strive to cultivate a diverse set of skills and habits:
Time and Cognitive Load Management: Implementing structured schedules and prioritizing tasks can prevent burnout. Utilizing tools like calendars and task management apps aids in maintaining focus and efficiency.
Professional Presence: Standing in front of a closet full of clothes and feeling like we have nothing to wear is exhausting. In order to manage this unnecessary stress, we have to be strategic, so we always know what to wear. If we all dressed according to our feelings, we would all be wearing yoga pants and sweats. That won’t get us far in business.
Financial Literacy: Understanding personal finance, from budgeting to investing, ensures long-term security and reduces stress associated with economic uncertainties.
Technological Proficiency: Staying updated with emerging technologies is crucial. Regular training and a willingness to adapt to new tools enhance productivity and competitiveness.
Soft Skills Development: Emotional intelligence, effective communication, and leadership abilities are invaluable. They foster better teamwork and create positive workplace environments.
Empathy and Confidence: Balancing empathy with assertiveness fosters respect and collaboration. This equilibrium is vital for effective leadership and team dynamics.
Personal Habits to Enhance Professional Presence
Consistent Grooming: Adopting a modern, manageable hairstyle and a quick, effective makeup routine ensures a polished appearance without excessive time investment.
Health and Wellness: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate hydration, and stress management techniques contribute to overall well-being and a vibrant appearance.
Curated Wardrobe: Investing in well-fitting basics, understanding one's optimal color palette, and incorporating statement accessories can project confidence and individuality.
Prioritizing Relationships and Personal Fulfillment
While professional success is important, nurturing personal relationships and interests is equally vital:
Family and Friends: Regularly connecting with loved ones provides emotional support and enriches life beyond work.
Hobbies and Travel: Engaging in activities outside of work and exploring new cultures broadens perspectives and fosters creativity.
Community Involvement: Participating in community service or local events strengthens social bonds and offers a sense of belonging.
By embracing adaptability and continuous growth, we can craft a fulfilling and successful career while maintaining a balanced and enriching personal life, but none of the factors should be ignored. They all do matter.
“Let no one think that flexibility and a predisposition to compromise is a sign of weakness or a sell-out.”
—Paul Kagame
A Quick Guide for Business Professionals and HR Leaders
🔹 Why It Matters: Your professional presence isn’t just about clothes—it’s how you present yourself, communicate nonverbally, and align your presence with your leadership goals. Use this checklist to refine your presence and make a lasting impact.
✅ Section 1: First Impressions & Leadership
🔲 Does my appearance align with the role I want to be seen in?
🔲 Is my clothing well-fitted, structured, and free from distractions?
🔲 Do my color choices project confidence, authority, or approachability?
🔲 Am I wearing intentional accessories that enhance rather than detract?
🔲 Have I updated my wardrobe to reflect my professional evolution?
📌 Quick Action Tip: Stand in front of a mirror and ask, "Does my look match the leader I aspire to be?"
✅ Section 2: The Science of Dressing for Success
🔲 Am I choosing structured clothing that subconsciously signals authority?
🔲 Does my wardrobe reflect industry expectations while maintaining authenticity?
🔲 Have I eliminated items that look worn out, ill-fitting, or too casual for my goals?
🔲 Am I dressing with sustainability in mind, investing in quality over quantity?
🔲 Do I have a go-to polished look that requires minimal decision-making?
📌 Quick Action Tip: Create a signature outfit formula: (Staple Item) + (Polished Add-on) + (Power Color)
✅ Section 3: Workplace Dress Code Alignment (For HR & Leaders)
🔲 Is my company’s dress code policy clear, inclusive, and up to date?
🔲 Does it provide guidance without being restrictive or outdated?
🔲 Have I addressed gender, cultural, and accessibility considerations?
🔲 Am I setting an example through my own professional presence?
🔲 Is there a visual guide or training to help employees understand expectations?
📌 Quick Action Tip: Review your company’s dress code—does it support diverse leadership styles?
✅ Section 4: Nonverbal Communication & Executive Presence
🔲 Am I maintaining strong posture to project confidence?
🔲 Do I use purposeful hand gestures and eye contact?
🔲 Is my body language aligned with my spoken message?
🔲 Am I moving with intention rather than fidgeting or appearing rushed?
🔲 Have I recorded myself speaking to identify body language improvements?
📌 Quick Action Tip: Power Posture Check: Stand tall, shoulders back, chin level. Does this feel natural?
✅ Section 5: Building an Intentional Work Wardrobe
🔲 Do I have versatile, professional staples that mix and match easily?
🔲 Am I investing in quality over fast fashion for a polished, sustainable look?
🔲 Do my shoes, bag, and outerwear support my overall look?
🔲 Have I eliminated pieces that no longer serve my professional goals?
🔲 Do I have a work wardrobe strategy to avoid daily decision fatigue?
📌 Quick Action Tip: The 5-Minute Outfit Test: Can I put together a polished look in under 5 minutes?
✅ Bonus for HR Professionals: Creating a Modern Dress Code
🔲 Is our dress code policy aligned with company culture and evolving norms?
🔲 Does it allow for individuality while maintaining professionalism?
🔲 Have I provided clear visual examples for employees to follow?
🔲 Does it avoid bias toward gender, race, or body type?
🔲 Is the policy communicated effectively in onboarding and team training?
📌 Quick Action Tip: "Dress Code vs. Professional Presence" Audit: Does the policy empower employees or restrict them?
📌 Final Thoughts: The Professional Presence Commitment
Refining your presence isn’t about vanity—it’s about intentionality. Use this checklist to fine-tune your professional presence, build credibility, and make lasting impressions in the workplace.
✅ Small daily upgrades lead to massive confidence shifts.
✅ A polished presence isn’t about trends—it’s about being authentically, strategically confident.
📩 Want More? Follow me on LinkedIn & Substack for expert strategies on workplace presence, HR dress codes, and leadership image.
Download this checklist as well as other FREE resources to jumpstart your journey to dressing for success! 📩
Here is the link to Gloria’s monologue in Barbie (2023):
Until next time, dress well, my friend!
Tatyana Wilson, MA, EdS, SHRM-CP
Founder, Light Loves Color