With the success of the film ‘The Iron Lady’ with Oscar winning Meryl Streep in the title role I was interviewed recently by BBC Radio Guernsey on the importance of image and particularly what we wear in business.

Jenny Kendall-Tobias, the presenter, asked me why it had been so important to change Margaret Thatcher’s image, getting her away from wearing hats, and what power her image actually had.

My response was that politicians are paranoid about the image they project, and I believe this is top of the priority ladder. What you wear has validity as our image plays a huge part in how we are received. First impressions are created on the non verbal signals we give out. Image is everything as dress is the first thing we take in. In Mrs Thatcher’s case they needed to soften her and make people feel more comfortable with her, they did the right thing removing her hats as these probably alienated people. It’s no surprise that her nickname was ‘the iron lady’ and this was about her formal image as much as her policies.

Jenny also asked about David Cameron and other politicians. In his case he dresses how we would expect a politician and especially the country’s leader to dress. He is well dressed, maybe a little boring - but actually we don't want him in open necked shirts and casual clothes. This was a mistake made by Tony Blair when he started to appear in linen suits, the mixture of looks was confusing and he didn't get it right.

There are some myths about work dress - some unfortunately coming from Image Consultants, such as the example Jenny gave about women working in a bank wearing trousers, who were told they were intimidating to men! This is too general - we are all individuals and maybe if you wear a black trouser suit, have a severe haircut and wear no makeup you would be intimidating. However, I think a woman in a trouser suit in a colour and style that works for her with accessories which show a little of her personality would be professional rather than intimidating.

On the subject of professional women trying to break through the glass ceiling I would advise that even on dress down days they wear some kind of jacket, even a casual one, as a jacket always empowers you. I always suggest that you dress for the job you want - what are your managers wearing? You should also be very aware of grooming, and what is right for your personality.

Grooming and attention to detail is also important to men, watch that your collars aren’t curling under, you don’t have shiny trousers or bitten down nails. And it may sound basic but learn to tie your tie properly!

Good fit is of paramount importance to everyone, in my work I see so many people in poorly fitting clothes, such as suits that don't fit on the shoulder, trousers that are too long or short, gaping where buttons are stretched across the tummy or bust. This all looks sloppy and gives the impression that you don’t care about details.

Two final points - firstly about those looking for work who don’t have much money to spend on interview outfits. Again pay attention to the detail, make sure what you have fits well, is spotlessly clean and well pressed. Try looking in second hand and charity shops - these have improved massively in the last few years and you may find a great suit that is an absolute bargain, then get it altered to fit perfectly. Another tip is never to put cheap accessories with an expensive suit as this brings your look down. You can however, make an inexpensive outfit look more expensive with good accessories.

Lastly we talked about whether your image is important when you are wrapped up against the elements - well my answer is yes - you never know who you are going to meet and your personal brand is always on show. Just make sure that your outer wear or coat fits well, is in a great colour for you and reflects your personality. If you want advice on executive dressing please get in contact.