LisaMarie Luccioni, Image Establishment owner and image and etiquette expert: We're an image/impression management firm empowering companies and individuals to present their professional best in three areas necessary for advancement in today's global economy:

• Communicating a clear and effective verbal message
• Demonstrating proper business etiquette and social graces
• Projecting an authentic — but appropriate — personal and professional image.

In other words, we emphasize the ABC's of personal and professional success: Appearance. Behavior. Communication. If you've ever wondered how to navigate a five-course meal, which shoulder a name badge should call home, which garments and colors in your closet communicate power, or how to give the best presentation in the room, we're your comprehensive go-to source. We invite your audience to review our company Web site for full services offered.

Cincy Chic: Why are etiquette and self-presentation so important?

Luccioni: Because one plus one can equal 10. Social graces plus a polished image result in the halo effect, a psychological outcome where people automatically ascribe all sorts of other positive qualities in addition to the original trait. … Want a return on investment? Etiquette and image give you that.

Interestingly, I've spoken to diverse industries…, but all have hired me for the same purpose: to emphasize the importance of image in their workplace. In today's increasingly competitive job market, professional polish should always be applied.

Cincy Chic: What are some of the more common behavioral politeness and image mistakes women make?

Luccioni: 1. I'm a passionate advocate of manners and civility. That said, mannerly doesn't mean passivity. Mannerly can still be assertive. It's when you move into aggressiveness that civility has probably been removed from the situation.

2. Many women use disclaimers/disqualifiers when they speak, which can diminish their credibility, especially with men. Limit or eliminate "I'm not exactly sure of this, but _____" and "I could be wrong here, but ____" statements. Men rarely preface their comments with this "one-down" approach. When we do so, we may appear less competent and assured.

3. Occupation, geographical location and season can change the equation, but realize that most people decode an ample display of skin as "casual" and "inviting." For example, contrast a male news anchor wearing a suit (all skin covered) with a female counterpart who displays bare arms and cleavage. Placed side-by-side, the woman certainly looks more approachable, but less authoritative. Understand, I'm not saying that showing skin is wrong. I am saying there's a time and a place.

Cincy Chic: As this is for our Secrets issue, what tips can you share for correcting those pitfalls and heading down a more polite and professionally polished path?

Luccioni: Reflect where you seek improvement. Desire to become a more polished presenter? Consider taking a speech course or exploring Toastmasters. Seeking a new look? Visit a store and sample styles, colors, and outfits you'd otherwise never consider (trust me: this can be a life-changing experience). Curious how to make a proper introduction between your client and your boss? Purchase an etiquette book or consult library resources; information is available and often times, free.

Moreover, I'd encourage your audience to read my Psychology Today blog. I'm the official etiquette and image blogger on staff. My posts are carefully crafted and written to offer value to its readers. Learn the strategies for projecting visual, verbal, and behavioral success.

Cincy Chic: When you're not working hard to spread the manners message, how do you have fun?

Luccioni: My job is so high-energy and high-performance, fun is usually calm and relaxation. Libraries are God's work. I read every book, magazine and newspaper I can find. Blockbuster movies are always a treat. Name an actor. I've probably seen their work. Winton Woods Park and Hueston Woods Lodge. And while I have not visited in some time, King's Island is magical.

Cincy Chic: What do you love most about Cincinnati?

Luccioni: Clearly this will reveal my bias, but I must brag: The University of Cincinnati! Top-ranked programs, innovative research, cooperative education, award-winning sports teams (my student athletes are some of the hardest-working people I know), and a recent nod by Fortune Magazine as one of the "World's Most Beautiful Campuses." Voted on by architects and college designers, we're ranked right up there with Oxford, Princeton and Yale. Our campus illuminated at night is a visual feast. I should know. I teach many an evening class. Go Bearcats!

PHOTO CREDITS
Photos courtesy of LisaMarie Luccioni

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