Wednesday, July 27th, 2011
The strength or degree of a relationship is often determined by how well you know and understand someone.
Often you might be asked how well you know another person. But rarely would you ever be asked how well you know yourself, for of course it is assumed that you would be the person that understands yourself best.
But how well do you really know yourself and how much attention are you actually paying to YOU? What are you naturally good at, what do you love doing and what do you want to achieve?
According to Tom Rath, author of number one wall street journal bestseller, Strengths Finder, the primary goal of almost any learning program is to help us become who we are not. Think back to when you were in high school. Each subject that you didn’t like and were not good at, you were naturally encouraged to concentrate more on. This may have been effective in marginally raising your marks, but the sacrifice was greater time and labour on your part.
Now if instead, you had spent more of your time and effort in areas and subjects you were naturally strong at, think of how much better you could have performed. Understanding yourself and applying yourself appropriately is key to realising both success and your potential for greatness.
When your key strengths and abilities are honed and applied at the centre of your life, you will not only find that you achieve your goals with greater ease, but you will also be more eager, motivated and personally satisfied. According to Tom Rath, studies show that people who have the opportunity to focus on their strengths are “six times as likely to be engaged in their jobs and more than three times as likely to report having an excellent quality of life in general.”
If you allow yourself to use your strengths and natural talents unreservedly, you will be in a position to truly offer the best you have to give and chances are that you will definitely succeed in whatever you are aiming to achieve.
Let yourself be who you were meant to be. Know and accept your limitations. Know and accept your strengths. Invest in your strengths, focus on your strengths and build on them. This is a core principle at EGAMI. We encourage you to focus on your best assets.
Knowing your unique strengths, making the most of them and projecting them through your image can make a world of difference in your career. By drawing on your key strengths and experiences, you can create a unique identity, one that speaks volumes about who you are and what you have to offer. At EGAMI, we seek to help people market their finest strengths and abilities, to build a strong brand and personal profile, and to most importantly fulfil their potential for greatness.
You have everything it takes. All you need to do is to be more of YOU.
Tags: achieve, career coaching, career development, Confidence, EGAMI STYLE, goals, job engagement, natural talent, Personal Brand, Personal Branding, potential for greatness, Professional Brand, Professional Image, Self-Confidence, strengths, Tom Rath
Posted in Uncategorized | 3 Comments »
Friday, May 27th, 2011
Have you ever heard of the term Personal Branding? It’s not something we have made up, it’s a positioning strategy frequently used by leaders and politicians across the globe, to enhance their personal impact and boost their careers. Our Prime Minister is no exception.
As, a role model for aspiring female leaders, a representative of the Labour Party, the Prime Minister of Australia and an ambassador for all its people, Julia Gillard undoubtedly has a huge responsibility on her shoulders. Central to her performing each of these roles, is the cultivation of a strong personal brand and image that projects a confident, capable and statesman-like figure.
One of the most visible personal branding strategies employed by Gillard is the accentuation of her most identifiable characteristic, her hair colour. By intensifying her hair to a deeper and richer hue of red, the colour’s strengthened connotations of energy and confidence are transferred to Gillard’s persona, lifting her appearance and giving her a more striking and energetic presence.
According to former finance minister, Lindsay Tanner, ‘Gillard has dyed her hair red for years to help build her personal brand. It makes her more noticeable.’ The move also represents Gillard’s embracement of her unique colouring and the development of her assets into a personal trademark that makes her more memorable.
So if you want to advance your career, consider the use of personal branding strategies and how they can help you enhance your visibility, communicate all your skills and capabilities and really project you, at your finest.
Tags: career advancement, career development, Confidence, EGAMI STYLE, Gillard, Holistic Image, Image, Image Consultant, Image Consultants, image psychology, Julia Gillard, labour party, Lindsay Tanner, Personal Brand, Personal Branding, personal branding strategy, personal impact, positioning strategy, Presentation, Prime Minister, Prime Minister Australia, Professional Brand, Professional Image
Posted in Professional, Topics of Interest, Uncategorized | 1 Comment »
Wednesday, December 22nd, 2010
A common misconception people often have towards colour is that it is, just colour. But colour is not something to be taken lightly. It has the ability to affect your mood, influence your perception and even empower you.
In fact, I could even drive you out of your own house with nothing but a single colour. Do you think that’s too bold a claim? Well think about this. Picture the interior of your house. Now imagine, I went and painted it all in bright red.
What’s that? You say red is your favourite colour? Well, now take it even a step further and imagine if all the furniture, as well as all the other items in your house were also the same shade of red. How long do you think you’ll really be able to stay in the house? Let alone live in it… I know I wouldn’t last more than five minutes. That much red is far too loud and overwhelming.
Evidently, colour can be a truly powerful tool, so understanding colour and learning how to wear it, can really work to your advantage.
So what exactly is colour?
It all began during the 1700’s, when Sir Isaac Newton’s experiment of entrapping light in a prism, retracted seven main colours through the visible spectrum of white light. This discovery in the nature of light and colour initiated the first relationship between light and colour. As you can see, there is a whole science behind light and colour.
In fact, the underlying meaning of colour is based around science and psychology. Which is why, as image and personal brand consultants, we delve deeper into the realm of colour to discover the myriad of meanings associated with colour and how this affects our state of mind.
Think about the colours you wear and how much your mood that day influences this choice. Are you feeling bright and energetic and want to make a bold statement with a lively yellow? Or do you want to exude elegance and sophistication, and feel more powerful in a classic black?
See how these everyday choices reflect you as a person; from your emotions to influencing how others perceive you. It really is incredible how something so universal and simple allows us to be so creative and expressive.
In fact, you could even say that colours are our ‘optical emotions’.
Human-beings are amazing creatures. We sense and interpret colours through our eyes, body and mind. Colours sensed through the eyes stimulate different regions that are sensitive to specific colours. For example the area sensitive to green light is located directly in the centre of the retina, which allows light to fall into the centre of the eye. This makes the colour green, the most relaxing colour for the eyes and, in turn, the mind.
So next time you are deciding on your outfit, visualise how people interpret colour through their senses and what your colour choice says about you.
Be aware however, that the previously discussed interpretations of colour only apply to Western culture. Next time, we will investigate how the symbolism and meaning of colour varies across different cultures.
Tags: Body Image, colour analysis, Colour consultation, colour expressions, colour perception, colour perceptions, Colour psychology, Confidence, EGAMI STYLE, Holistic Image, Image, Image Consultant, Image Consultants, image perception, image psychology, isaac newton, light and colour, optical emotions, Personal Brand, Professional Brand, sir isaac newton, Style, Style and confidence, Style Consultants, Stylist, Wardrobe Styling
Posted in Professional, Topics of Interest | 3 Comments »
Thursday, December 9th, 2010
“Though I am grateful for the blessings of wealth, it hasn’t changed who I am. My feet are still on the ground. I’m just wearing better shoes.” Oprah Winfrey
Oprah is coming to Australia! No doubt we are all excited about this famous icon paying our continent a special visit.
As a figure, she is as iconic as the Sydney Opera House or a red soled Louboutin heel. Forbes 3rd most powerful woman is about to touch down in the country, and it’s causing a stir. I mean who doesn’t love Oprah? She has the most vivacious personality, is so down to earth and is well-known for her incredible generosity.
But it hasn’t all been easy for Oprah. Throughout the years, Oprah has endured a constant battle with her image. We’ve watched her transition through the decades with many a makeover and make under. She was often overly conscious of her body type, and selected styles to conceal her body. Oprah’s clothing choice was reflective of where she was physically.
But now, in the last five years, Oprah’s self perception towards her image has changed. She has progressed as an individual and has established her own unique style; a clean silhouette with classic colours, ranging from neutrals to deep, rich hues that convey elegance and sophistication. Oprah has become more confident in herself as a person, both mentally and physically and this clearly reflects in her new approach to image and styling. We at EGAMI STYLE can see that she has embraced and embodied a spirit and style that is all her own.
Take a look below at a timeline of Oprah through the ages, from present to past.
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Tags: Body Image, Confidence, EGAMI STYLE, Icon, Image, Image Consultant, Image Consultants, Oprah, Oprah Australia, Oprah house, Oprah past, Oprah present, Oprah Sydney, Oprah weight, Oprah Winfrey, Personal Brand, Professional Image, Self-Confidence, Style
Posted in Topics of Interest | 4 Comments »
Thursday, November 25th, 2010
Individuals can be trained and slowly cultured into strong and powerful leaders. But imagine being suddenly thrust into a leadership position without any prior knowledge or training. Well this was how it all began for Sam Walsh, Chief Executive of Rio Tinto Iron Ore.
It was after the unexpected death of his father, that Walsh’s leadership skills came to surface. Despite being only a young teenager, Walsh took it upon himself to start managing all of his family’s affairs. Undoubtedly, this is a feat that only a natural born leader with great strength of will and character would be able to achieve.
With his strong leadership qualities, it is no surprise that Walsh is now in a high-powered management position in one of the world’s leading resource companies. Despite his incredible degree of authority and power, Walsh remains a very open and relatable character. He has been known to prefer a more open-door and informal style to leadership which encourages team involvement and empowerment.
Walsh’s individual style to leadership and high level of professionalism is well reinforced by his external image. His choice of blues and purples in shirts and ties, communicate a sense of formality and professionalism, but also reflect his approachability and openness. From a colour perspective, these colours are well suited for his image as blue is a colour which represents integrity, communication and trust and purple denotes vision and regality.
Walsh is also often seen wearing a handkerchief in his suit pocket, which communicates his gentlemanly characteristics as well as adding an interesting twist, which sets his style apart from the more simplistic and conventional style of other high level executives. The addition of cufflinks and a pin finishes his elegant look, completing the image of a refined, statesmanlike figure.
Overall, Walsh is truly an inspirational leader whom has successfully distinguished himself by cultivating an image which strongly aligns with his professional status, as well as his own personal characteristics and leadership style.
Tags: Body Image, Chief Executive Rio Tinto, Colour consultation, Confidence, EGAMI STYLE, Image, Image Consultant, Image Consultants, image psychology, inspirational leader, Leadership, Leadership Brand, leadership qualities, leadership style, Personal Brand, Personal Branding, Presentation, Professional Brand, Professional Image, Rio Tinto, Rio Tinto Iron Ore, Sam Walsh, strong leadership, Style, Style and confidence, Style Consultants, Stylist
Posted in Corporate, Personal, Professional | 2 Comments »
Wednesday, November 17th, 2010
If you have a dream, then you should chase after it. Sounds simple enough, right?
Well take a step into the shoes of a young woman who has low self-confidence and is struggling to step out of her shell. There is no denying she’s a smart woman, after all she’s excelling academically at university and has the potential to accomplish great things in life. But having potential can only get you so far if you’re shy and unsure of yourself. So it’s not surprising that the thought of attending an interview, which even a self-assured person can find nerve-racking, is petrifying. Not only that, but this lack of confidence can prevent someone from achieving their future goals.
Unfortunately, she’s not alone. This somewhat daunting and over-whelming feeling is a reality for many young people who are just starting their careers. Imagine the surprise of entering the big world of corporate and professional organisations after just having graduated university. Or having the potential and skill, but not being able to portray yourself visually in the way you want to be perceived.
We all have career goals and aspirations at some point in our lives but making them happen is another completely different story. And that’s why projecting a confident image is such an important and powerful tool. We also all have positive qualities, but what many people don’t realise is that confidence defines who you are and helps you in pursuing your career.
EGAMI STYLE recognises the importance of nurturing talent and working with young people to build their confidence, establish an influential image, help cultivate their leadership ability and develop life skills. For this reason, we are thrilled to be involved in helping young people achieve their career goals through our image programs and workshops as well as supporting the WA Miss Universe event.
From a holistic perspective, our approach enables young people to develop their own unique brand and create a memorable presence that goes beyond first impressions. For the WA Miss Universe participants, what’s really important is that this is a life skill they will be able to take with them beyond the competition and greatly assist them in their future endeavours.
Tags: career, career goals, career preparation, Colour consultation, communication, Confidence, dreams, EGAMI STYLE, Image, Image Consultant, Image Consultants, image psychology, interview preparation, leadership ability, Miss Universe, Personal Brand, Personal Branding, Presentation, Professional Brand, Professional Image, Self-Confidence, Style, Style and confidence, Success, talent, university graduates, WA Miss Universe, Wardrobe Styling, young people
Posted in Corporate, Personal, Professional, Topics of Interest | 39 Comments »
Friday, October 22nd, 2010
Gail Kelly, Chief Executive of Westpac, is a woman who encompasses the essences of power and success. Recently ranked eighth in Forbes’ illustrious list of the world’s most powerful women, Kelly’s recognition highlights the importance of image and perception in a professional environment. Her reputation as a born leader is evident in her accomplishments; however it is Kelly’s commanding presence that has ultimately established her successful career.
Kelly’s overall image reflects her position as a leader. The use of primary colours in her wardrobe, such as a dominating red, sets apart from the uniformity of grey. Simply wearing red will dramatically enhance positive attributes such as confidence, strength and energy, in comparison to grey which is a psychological neutral and evokes a limited response.
Kelly’s image is complemented by her body language and powerful gestures, as you can see in the image contained within this recent article. This not only allows for effective communication but conveys confidence and leadership.
By self-packaging her positive attributes, Kelly demonstrates a strong holistic image of confidence and success. As you can see, investing in your professional image and personal brand and influencing how you want to be perceived are powerful steps in creating your own success. Congratulations Gail, what a great achievement for an Australian Executive!
Tags: Australian Executive, Chief Executive of Westpac, colour analysis, Colour consultation, Confidence, EGAMI STYLE, female leader, financial markets, Forbes, Gail Kelly, Image Consultant, Image Consultants, Personal Brand, Personal Branding, powerful women, Self-Confidence, Style, Style and confidence, Style Consultants, Success, Westpac, World's most powerful women
Posted in Professional, Topics of Interest | 1 Comment »
Wednesday, July 28th, 2010
It’s commonly understood that black is not a colour. So you can imagine how much I love Renoir’s recognition of black and the significance it holds in the colour world.
Black is one of my favourite colours. Black can be intriguing, sophisticated and elegant. When it comes to selecting black items for my wardrobe, I search for unique pieces and works of art. Such as my beautifully crafted wool blend textured jacket.
A timeless black silk shirt and stunning black lace structured dress add interest and an element of distinction to my professional wardrobe. Adorned with a pair of shiny black heels, they make great staples that can carry you from the office through to functions or events in the evening.
Le Moulin de la Galette (1876), Renoir
Tags: black, Colour consultation, Confidence, EGAMI STYLE, Fashion, fashion trends, Image, Image Consultant, Image Consultants, image psychology, Personal Brand, Personal Branding, Personal Shopping, Professional Brand, Professional Image, Renoir, Style, Style and confidence, Style Consultants, Stylist, Wardrobe Styling
Posted in Professional | 2 Comments »
Thursday, July 15th, 2010
Colour is the foundation of personal styling. When you understand your unique colour palette based on your characteristics and personality, and balance this both intuitively and intellectually, you will know how to create a look and style that is made just for you.
I use colour to communicate my individuality and when I wear the right colours it gives me the image of style and confidence. It plays an important part in my life not only because I am in the field of providing image advice but also because it is how I express my creativity and love of fashion.
Use colour to communicate your individuality by adding it to your life!
Tags: Colour consultation, Colour psychology, Confidence, EGAMI STYLE, Fashion, fashion trends, Image, Image Consultant, Image Consultants, Personal Brand, Personal Branding, Personal colours, Personal Shopping, Style, Style Consultants, Stylist, Wardrobe Styling
Posted in Personal | No Comments »
Tuesday, December 8th, 2009
What is your new year’s resolution this year? ‘Image’ is the forgotten science of success. It’s the first impression you make and the lasting memory you leave. So what image did you portray in 2009? With 2010 just around the corner, now is the perfect time to re-define how YOU want to be perceived; memorable, authentic, confident, stylish?
Combining style with the principles of influence, EGAMI STYLE, invites you to express a more powerful and persuasive professional image this new year. Keep your eyes peeled on our upcoming style and confidence series of events or see our tailored image packages designed to put you ahead of the game so you feel empowered to Step Out With Confidence In 2010!
Tags: Confidence, Corporate Image, Image, Image Consultant, Personal Branding, Professional Image, Style, Success
Posted in Personal | 2 Comments »
Tuesday, December 8th, 2009
With the festive season fast approaching, many calendars are quickly filling up with end of year work functions, Christmas parties and New Year’s celebrations. Before it’s too late, now is an important time to schedule in some ‘time out’ for yourself, something that is often overlooked during this hectic time of year.
Everybody has a different way of unwinding; perusing the latest fashion at the stores or on-line with a glass of champagne (highly recommended!), working out at the gym, perhaps a little pampering or reading a great book. Wouldn’t you agree that it’s essential to make the time to do these things on a regular basis? Maintaining a ‘work-life balance’ can become a bit difficult if like us, you really do enjoy what you do for a living. It is us, however, who generally burn out the quickest as we never switch off, mentally or in the technological sense.
If there simply are not enough hours in the day to take time out for yourself, then how about scheduling that meeting over a game of golf or a walk around the river rather than in the boardroom? In most cases, your client or colleague is probably just as time-deprived as you are and would enjoy the break!
A healthy state of mind is the foundation for projecting a confident image. Are you aligned?
Tags: Christmas, Confidence, EGAMI STYLE, Holistic Image, Image, Style, Work life balance, Xmas
Posted in Professional, Uncategorized | No Comments »
