Improving your corporate fitness image
June 21, 2012 3:32PM
Personnal Trainer Demie Scott April 30 2010 in Crystal Lake. (Dave Shields/For Sun-Times Media)
Updated: June 22, 2012 3:46PM
It is true: The job market remains a focus for many people.
The fact remains that potential employees and employers alike seek out job opportunities on a daily basis. Job candidates compete for limited positions, while employers are looking to attract the “best” employees.
So, how does all this tie into fitness?
Well, we all have been instructed to follow a few basic guidelines when presenting ourselves at a job interview:
Be professional; appearance should be neat, well-groomed and wardrobe-appropriate.
Make eye contact; speak clearly and concisely.
Do not slouch; demonstrate open body language etc.
But what about the expectations placed upon the potential employer?
First impressions can be key. What must go through the mind of a job interviewee when they are met by an employer representative who is:
Out of breath by the time they lead you to the office for the job interview.
Seemingly outgrowing their work attire.
Describing the “all you can eat” lunch buffet next door as one of the perks of the position.
When a job candidate walks in the door, how will they perceive an office riddled with chocolate or laden with doughnuts? How will their perception change it they see some fresh fruit or even a small dish of peppermints (fresh breath) pre-interview?
Remember, I am talking first impression here!
I am not suggesting that any of this behavior reflects poorly on a business’s product or service, but it certainly can skew the opinion of the person looking to join the team.
Some studies indicate that a person with a minimal level of fitness may be perceived as someone who is too laid-back, unmotivated and not very dependable.
An office chock full of unhealthy treats might be described as disorganized, too social and even an unproductive environment in which to work.
First impressions
No matter the type of business, an atmosphere where effects of healthy living are evident will likely be seen as structured, driven and accomplished.
The “best” employees will be motivated to work with what they see as the “best” employer — given the first impression.
Remember my motto: “What would Demie say?”
Well, this time, it would be, “Make a good impression through your image.”
Next time: “Making your diet count.”
Demie Scott is a certified personal trainer and owner of FrisScott and Associates Inc., and is occasional columnist for The Courier-News. Do you have a health and fitness question or topic you would like considered for future columns? Email Scott through the contact-us page on her website, www.makingfitnessconvenient.com. Check with your physician before starting an exercise program.
