Ask the Image Expert

Sherry Maysonave is the founder and president of Empowerment Enterprises, one of America's leading communication-image firms. Sherry conducts corporate seminars and coaches executives, professionals, and politicians in achieving excellence in communication and image. She is also the author of Casual Power: How to Power Up your Nonverbal Communication and Dress Down for Success

Business Travel Attire

Question: I'm attending a business conference out of town with my boss. We are traveling on Sunday. What's appropriate attire for the flight. Normally on planes and on weekends I like to wear something comfortable like jeans, but is that appropriate on a business flight?
Georgia

Answer: Dear Georgia,
No, no, no…do not wear jeans on a business flight, especially when your boss is accompanying you. And if by some bizarre chance your boss shows up in jeans, don't second-guess yourself. He/she will remember your professionalism as a positive.

When you are traveling to a business conference, you never know what networking opportunities will arise in flight or upon arrival. It's important to look the part from the very beginning. Often opening events or business dinners are scheduled on the day you arrive. If your plane is delayed, there may not be time to change. It pays to keep these considerations in mind when dressing for the plane.

If you find jeans comfortable, pants or a long skirt made of a softer fabric than denim will also be comfortable for you. And you will look far more professional. Be sure to create an outfit look to maximize your professional aura.

Traveling with the boss on a Sunday is a great time to market yourself. Your boss will make judgments about you based upon how you dress and how you conduct yourself. Ironically, some bosses have a double standard, or so it seems. While certain attire and behaviors are okay for them (in their eyes), it's not okay for their subordinates. It can be difficult to discern if this is how your boss operates or not. Just be aware that this can be a trap and it often takes years to discover.

When traveling for business on a Sunday, it's not really a day off. Think of it as work, because it is.

Best of luck to you,
Sherry Maysonave

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