PROFESSIONALISM IN ROCKLIN UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

Dress for Success

What does the research say?

Teaching Effectiveness As Identified By Dress: A Multistate Study

By Rachel A. Underwood, Ed.D., Janie O. Kenner, Ph.D., Sandra McCune, Ph.D.

Stephen F. Austin State University, Nacogdoches, TX

Non-Verbal Communications

An individual’s appearance affects the way others perceive him/her and non-verbally communicates information concerning his/her character, position, professional attributes, and social status.

What does the research say?

Herbon and Workman….2001School dress and appearance codes are

an expression of individual self but also a symbol of expected behavior. In general, the manner in which a teacher presents himself/herself, via dress (or appearance),

What does the research say?

affects student perceptions of the teacher’s ability to teach.

Professional Dress Inferences

Workman’s (1984-85) study showed that

when a teacher dressed in professional clothing, they:

Were perceived to be more intellectual and credible

Scored higher in class preparation

When a teacher wore traditional business attire, perceptions of the teacher were overwhelmingly:

• Professional

• Responsible

• Competent

Professional Attire Indicates….

A more professional image for both male and female teachers throughout the research.

Some Helpful Hints….

Forbes Magazine: Dress for Success

You’re dressing to underscore your professionalism and

competence.

Overcoming a first “bad impression” is as difficult as

un-ringing a bell.

Appearance can create credibility.

“CLOTHES MAKE THE MAN. NAKED PEOPLE HAVE LITTLE OR NO

INFLUENCE IN SOCIETY.”

Mark Twain said….

You Have Just 30 Seconds!

Your clothingYour hairstyleThe way you carry yourselfYour smile

Impressions are based upon what others SEE:

More Impressions in 30 Seconds….

Educational levelCareer competence and successPersonalityLevel of sophisticationTrustworthinessSense of humorSocial heritage Not f

air…

But tru

e!

Gilda Radner?

“I base my fashion taste on what doesn’t itch.”

David Lewis, Author of The Secret Language of Success

“When it comes to selling either your personal charms or professional abilities, body language talks loudest of all.”

In the Classroom…

Avoid bringing the beach into the office. Having a cover-up (neutral blazer or cardigan) on hand will always make an outfit look more professional. Trade your tank top for a silk shell and Havanas for backless mules.

• Modesty is key. A teacher’s clothing should not show too much skin. Some clothing can show inappropriate parts of the body while moving--so make sure you try many different poses before you wear something to work.

• Dress professionally. On any given day, you may see administrators, colleagues, superintendents, parents, volunteers and other visitors. You should always present a professional appearance--even if your dress code allows for a casual wardrobe.

Think about it!