I was standing in the doorway that led to the student event holding a “welcome” sign. I flashed my best smile and welcomed incoming attendees with a hardy, “I’m so glad you made it!” “You’ve come to the right place”!
Overhead banners, hats, and shirts proudly displayed the school colors, logo, and mascot. But, as I flashed my sign, smile, and most welcoming energy, I realized that I had made a classic mistake.
I was wearing a sweatshirt that bore the name of another school!
The event coordinators designated me to create a positive first impression at a gathering full of energy and anticipation. Unfortunately, while I gave my best cheerleader-style welcome, my style choice completely disconnected my image from the message on my welcome sign.
For the rest of the evening, I held my sign strategically to hide my fashion faux pas– the branding equivalent of spinach in my teeth.
We all have a brand. Whether we represent our company brand or another– our brand is how we make people feel when they are in our space.
- Welcomed
- Encouraged
- Empowered
- Supported
- Challenged
- Inspired
- Motivated
As professionals, we get to decide thoughtfully and intentionally what first impression we want to create.
Why do first impressions matter?
The truth is that first impressions lead to connections which lead people to take action.
People appreciate and admire a thoughtful, personal image. Makeup is a tool that can set you apart in business and life, a vehicle to attract interest in, attention to, and respect for you and your message, and a means to connect you more deeply to your audience.
Your makeup should match your message and fit your brand style.
Carefully balance your makeup choices with the vibe of your next event. If your audience or theme is more conservative, backdrop your message with more neutral tones. If the setting features hype and energy, reach for the brighter, bolder color. Dial your personality and style with the vibe and energy of the room ( whether virtual or in person). You will discover a frequency of influence that leaves a memorable and meaningful impression on your audience.
We may use different growth strategies and market to other ideal clients, but one thing is for sure: We want to make meaningful connections that lead to transformation. We can learn to leverage simple tools, like makeup, to increase our audience’s interest, respect, and admiration.
Don’t forget to take my quiz, “What Lipstick Fits Your Brand Style?” to begin your journey with makeup that matches your message.
As a stage performer for over 30 years, Salina understands the unique demand of putting your best face forward for your audience. After receiving her color designation under the direction of Celebrity Makeup Artist Luis Casco, Salina launched her makeup coaching business in 2020. She helps creative entrepreneurs access the tools and techniques they need to do their own makeup like a pro. Her specialty is showing people how to master their on-camera makeup so they can go from looking tired, dull, and washed out on screen to vibrant and magnetic–attracting audiences to their important message. She believes a powerful message and a confident image lead to unstoppable results. That is why she dedicates her expertise to helping professionals show up as the face of their brand, looking the part of their success.
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