• PROFESSIONAL IMAGE ASSESSMENT

    ⏱️ Time to Complete: 25-30 minutes

  • INTRODUCTION

    This assessment is designed to help you identify strengths and potential blind spots in your professional presence. Professional image transcends clothing choices—it encompasses how you show up in every interaction, both in-person and virtually.

  • This assessment goes directly to Kathryn Lowell and is treated as confidential. Your candor allows for more accurate insight and will always be respected and protected.
    Please allow 2–3 business days for a personal response from Kathryn.

  • Understanding Blind Spots

    A "blind spot" is an aspect of your professional presence that may be impacting how others perceive you—but you haven't recognized it as an area for development. These are often the most valuable areas to address because:You may be unaware of their impact on your career advancementSmall changes in these areas can create significant positive shiftsOthers may notice them but haven't told you directlyAs you complete this assessment, when you answer "Sometimes" or "Never" to a question, consider whether this could be a blind spot—something that's limiting your professional impact without you fully realizing it.

  • A Note on Inclusivity

    Professional presence can be authentically expressed within diverse cultural, religious, and personal contexts. This assessment recognizes that professional excellence looks different across cultures, religions, and individual expressions. While some questions address gender-specific considerations in clothing and grooming, these reflect practical differences in professional dress rather than assumptions about identity. Please answer based on how you present yourself professionally, adapting questions as needed to align with your values, beliefs, and authentic self-expression.The goal is not conformity, but rather intentional choices about how you want to be perceived in your professional environment while honoring who you are.

  • SECTION 1: PROFESSIONAL WARDROBE

  • I wear colors that complement my natural coloring.
  • I wear professional colors and patterns appropriate for my work environment.
  • My clothes fit me well (neither too tight nor too loose).
  • My work clothes clearly communicate professionalism in my field.
  • I have sufficient professional clothing that coordinates easily, making daily dressing efficient.
  • I have sufficient professional clothing that coordinates easily, making daily dressing efficient.
  • My work clothes are in excellent condition (no stains, tears, missing buttons, or excessive wear).
  • I am aware of my body type and dress in ways that are flattering and professional.
  • I dress appropriately for my position, industry, and the impression I want to make.
  • My work clothes are the best quality I can reasonably afford.
  • I regularly edit my closet and remove items that no longer serve my professional image.
  • I avoid wearing clothing that is noticeably outdated or out of style for my professional environment.
  • I understand fabric content and quality, and why it matters for professional dress.
  • I am aware of current professional style trends without chasing fads.
  • I properly care for my professional wardrobe (appropriate cleaning, storage, and maintenance).
  • I understand what constitutes appropriate professional dress in my workplace, whether formal, business casual, or casual.
  • I avoid garments that could be perceived as overly casual or inappropriate for my workplace.
  • I know how to dress professionally in hybrid and remote work settings.
  • I dress appropriately for video calls and understand how clothing translates on camera.

  • GENDER-SPECIFIC ATTIRE QUESTIONS

    Answer only the questions relevant to how you dress professionally. Select N/A for all others.

  • For those who wear dresses/skirts:

  • I wear colors that complement my natural coloring.

  • For those who wear suits, dress shirts, or tailored business attire:

  • I wear proper undergarments that provide appropriate support and are invisible under clothing.
  • I wear appropriate undershirts to protect my clothing and maintain a polished appearance.

  • For everyone:

  • I avoid tops that show my stomach or back, even when reaching up.
  • I wear appropriate socks for my professional setting.
  • My professional shoes are appropriate for my role, well-maintained, and in excellent condition.
  • My accessories are current, in excellent condition, and appropriately scaled for my frame.
  • If applicable, I limit jewelry and accessories to maintain a professional rather than distracting appearance.
  • I wear a professional (not athletic/casual) watch or timepiece if I wear one.

  • SECTION 2: GROOMING & PERSONAL CARE

  • My teeth are well-maintained and as white as I prefer them to be.
  • My breath is fresh and pleasant.
  • I maintain facial hair (if applicable) in a well-groomed, intentional style appropriate for my workplace.
  • I care for my skin daily with appropriate cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection.
  • My skin appears healthy—neither excessively oily nor dry and flaky.
  • I keep eyebrows groomed and shaped appropriately.
  • I address any distracting facial features (stray hairs, skin tags, etc.) that could detract from a polished appearance.
  • My hairstyle is current, professional, and well-maintained.
  • I have my hair cut or trimmed regularly to maintain its style.
  • My hair is well-conditioned and healthy-looking (not over-processed or damaged).
  • If I color my hair, I maintain it so roots or regrowth are not obvious.
  • My fingernails are clean, well-groomed, and appropriate in length.
  • If I wear nail polish or nail art, I keep it professional and appropriate for my workplace.
  • I understand how visible tattoos may be perceived in my workplace.
  • I understand how visible piercings may be perceived in my workplace.
  • I avoid wearing heavy cologne, perfume, or scented products that could be overpowering.
  • My appearance is well-maintained for both in-person and video interactions.

  • GENDER-SPECIFIC GROOMING QUESTIONS

    Answer only if relevant to you. Select N/A if not applicable.
    • For those who wear makeup:
  • I apply makeup that is polished, professional, and appropriately subtle for work settings.
  • My makeup application is skillful and well-blended.

  • SECTION 3: BODY LANGUAGE & NONVERBAL COMMUNICATION

  • I project a strong and positive first impression.
  • I greet people with appropriate physical gestures for my cultural context (handshakes, nods, etc.).
  • I initiate greetings confidently to establish presence and leadership.
  • I enter rooms and spaces with confidence, positive energy, and appropriate warmth.
  • My resting facial expression is neutral to pleasant (not severe or unapproachable).
  • I sit with good posture at meetings and work settings.
  • I smile genuinely and warmly (not forced or excessive).
  • I am conscious of my facial expressions and what they communicate.
  • I maintain appropriate eye contact when speaking with others.
  • I walk and stand with good posture—shoulders back, head up.
  • I walk with my head up and aware of my surroundings, not looking down.
  • I respect others' personal space and cultural norms around physical proximity.
  • I have a good understanding of body language and what mine communicates to others.
  • My body language demonstrates active listening and engagement when others are speaking.
  • I understand that nonverbal communication varies across cultures and adapt accordingly.
  • I am aware of my on-camera body language and presence in video meetings.

  • SECTION 4: VOCAL PRESENCE & COMMUNICATION

  • I have a pleasant, professional phone and video presence.
  • I demonstrate genuine interest in others by listening more than I talk.
  • I speak at an appropriate volume—neither too loud nor too soft for the setting.
  • I vary my pitch and tone to keep people engaged (avoiding monotone delivery).
  • I have clear diction and articulate my words well.
  • I avoid filler words such as "um," "uh," "like," "you know," and "sort of."
  • I know how to initiate conversations, keep them going, and end them gracefully.
  • I avoid vocal fry (the creaky, low-pitched sound at the end of sentences) in professional settings.
  • I avoid vocal fry (the creaky, low-pitched sound at the end of sentences) in professional settings.
  • I avoid interrupting others or finishing their sentences.
  • I know how to give and receive compliments graciously.
  • I think carefully before using humor, especially in professional settings.
  • I avoid using profanity in professional settings.

  • SECTION 5: VIRTUAL & HYBRID WORK PRESENCE

  • I project professionalism in virtual meetings.
  • My video call background is professional, uncluttered, and distraction-free.
  • I use appropriate lighting and camera positioning for video meetings.
  • My home office or remote work setup reflects well on my professional image.
  • I am punctual and fully prepared for virtual meetings.
  • I make thoughtful decisions about when to have my camera on or off.
  • I understand how to show up professionally in both in-office and remote settings.
  • I minimize distractions during virtual meetings (muting when not speaking, managing notifications, etc.).
  • I engage actively in virtual meetings through vocal and visual cues.

  • SECTION 6: DINING & BUSINESS MEAL ETIQUETTE

  • I demonstrate polished etiquette at business meals.
  • I understand appropriate protocols for who pays at business meals.
  • I know what to order at business meals (appropriate choices in price and complexity).
  • I can initiate and maintain conversation at business meals.
  • I can initiate and maintain conversation at business meals.
  • I understand and follow appropriate mobile phone etiquette at restaurants.
  • I understand my responsibilities when hosting a business meal.
  • I understand my responsibilities when I'm a guest at a business meal.
  • I navigate dietary restrictions or preferences gracefully in business dining situations.

  • SECTION 7: WORKPLACE ETIQUETTE & PROFESSIONALISM

  • I exercise good judgment about what personal information to share at work.
  • I avoid participating in office gossip or negative talk about colleagues.
  • I use professional email etiquette (clear subject lines, appropriate tone, timely responses).
  • I use professional voicemail etiquette (clear, upbeat greetings and concise messages).
  • I remain focused and engaged at meetings, even when the content is not immediately relevant to me.
  • I use appropriate smartphone and device etiquette in the office and meetings.
  • I include everyone present in conversations and avoid creating exclusive conversations.
  • I introduce people properly at business functions.
  • I regularly express appreciation for colleagues and collaborators.
  • My voicemail greeting is clear, current, and professionally upbeat.
  • I include complete contact information in my email signature.
  • When I lead meetings, I provide agendas in advance and respect people's time by ending on schedule.
  • I am mindful of how my device usage impacts my professional image.
  • I respond to professional communications (email, messages, calls) in a timely manner.

  • SECTION 8: PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & PRESENCE

  • I consistently exceed expectations in my role.
  • I take ownership of my performance without making excuses.
  • I actively build relationships across my organization or professional community.
  • I organize my thoughts before communicating and express them clearly and compellingly.
  • I communicate effectively in both writing and speaking.
  • I volunteer for challenging projects or assignments that others might avoid.
  • I can present effectively to groups and audiences.
  • I have mentors or trusted advisors and engage with them regularly.
  • I actively cultivate and maintain a professional network.
  • I regularly push myself outside my comfort zone for growth.
  • I maintain a positive, constructive attitude even in challenging situations.
  • I stay current on developments in my industry through reading, networking, and continuous learning.
  • I keep up with current events and can engage in informed conversation on relevant topics.
  • I have a system for remembering names and using them appropriately.
  • I communicate with candor and directness while remaining constructive.
  • I remain open-minded and genuinely consider perspectives different from my own.
  • I project passion and genuine enthusiasm for my work.
  • I communicate with sincerity and authenticity.
  • I think before responding rather than reacting impulsively.

  • SECTION 9: EXTENDED IMAGE (Your Professional Footprint)

  • My workspace is organized, functional, and projects professionalism.
  • I keep personal items at my workspace minimal and professional.
  • I maintain a clean workspace (disposing of food containers, organizing materials daily).
  • My online presence (LinkedIn, professional social media) reflects positively on my professional brand.
  • I manage my digital footprint thoughtfully, aware that employers and colleagues may view my online presence.
  • My LinkedIn profile is current, professional, and positions me well in my field.
  • If I use my vehicle for work purposes, it is clean and well-maintained inside and out.
  • The materials I use in professional settings (portfolios, notebooks, pens, bags) are quality items in good condition.

  • FINAL REFLECTION

  • CONTACT INFORMATION

  • Format: (000) 000-0000.
  • Should be Empty: