Dressing Better Than Your Boss...

Has this ever happened to you? Is this the scenario, daily, at your workplace?

Before I continue, think about a time you have attended an event, or gathering and were under-dressed. How did your appearance make you feel? Not only do you feel awkward, or have a diminished amount of self-confidence, I am sure a sense of inferiority was just one of your many negative feelings.

Now, apply the aforementioned situation to you and your boss. Have you ever thought about how your boss may feel?

Most bosses enjoy holding a superior position. They enjoy being in control and being in charge; they may enjoy managing and leading. Unfortunately, some “bosses” use their position to boost their self-confidence, and if this is the case, then anything can be a blow to it, including their subordinates’ appearance and apparel. After all, when you are dressed better than someone else is, the other person feels a sense of inferiority, and you may feel a bit more superior.  This is natural, and precisely why most bosses and executives tend to dress better than their subordinates. However, dressing better than your boss can be a blow to his or her confidence and this can definitely cause friction at the workplace.

Of course, his or her self-esteem isn’t your problem, but a comfortable work environment is desired by everyone. Therefore, if you find that your wardrobe is far better than your boss's (even on a lower salary), follow these tips to help improve this situation:

1.      Without changing your style or character, try watering down your look. Think, “Less is better”. Try one less accessory, or maybe more neutral colors.

2.      Limit “going all the way” with your appearance to only a few days a week. You are not compromising yourself and your style. You are simply toning it down. If you are truly stylish, toning down your look and maintaining your style should not be a problem, at all.

3.      Keep a humble attitude. Sure, you are “the hot stuff” at your office; everyone knows it. Nevertheless, remain unpretentious.

4.      Be “normal” occasionally. Let’s say it’s casual Friday. Be casual! Or it’s jean day. Wear a pair of great fitting jeans and a casual top. You may even appear more approachable than usual.

5.      Smile and say hello, aka, be friendly. An impeccably dressed individual often is assumed to be snooty. Remember, better dressed=more superiority=possible misconception, including arrogance. 

6.      The most important tip I can offer is give compliments regarding your boss’s wardrobe, but be specific.

a.       Don’t say, “I like your outfit, today”. (Never say ‘today’ when complimenting, signifying that every other day, they are a mess.)

b.      Instead, say, “I like that color on you; it really brings out your eyes,” or “I love the stones in your earrings”, or, “ That’s a nice tie-clip.”

c.       Never ask, “Where’d you get that”. It is not your business and they may be too embarrassed to tell you.

d.      Don’t over compliment to the point of discomfort. A compliment here and there is fine.

Even after applying some of these tips, your boss, even your co-workers may hold the same opinion about you or they may still suffer from bruised egos. People may still be jealous. Not your problem. Remember, you are at work to complete tasks. But at least you are attempting to make a more comfortable work environment.