We all try to shape up our physical appearance at one time or another. But we sometimes forget to think about the professional image that we present to the world.

Our actions, appearance, voice inflection, and ability to convey empathy and concern all play a role in our image. There are four categories we can focus on when considering as image makeover:

1. Professional work environment and interactions
2. Appearance
3. Collegiality/team member role
4. Professional accountabilities

Here are some examples of how you can portray a positive image in your work environment and interactions:

• Do not carry on a discussion in the nurses’ station that you would not want others to hear
• Respect the equipment you work with and handle it as if you paid for it out of your own paycheck
• Support other nurses who are being approached unprofessionally
• Do not display any behaviors or gestures in view of coworkers, patients, or families that you would not want seen or heard.

In terms of your appearance, think about these tips:

• Dress for the respect you feel you deserve
• Follow your organizational dress code policies and procedures
• Recognize that your appearance affects perceptions of your competency
• Differentiate yourself in dress from the unlicensed members of your healthcare team

You portray a positive image when you strive to work in a respectful, collegial environment:

• Proactively offer to assist other members of the team to demonstrate team commitment
• Actively become involved in the orientation process of all new staff
• Do not allow someone else’s unacceptable behavior to become your own behavior
• Be open to constructive criticism and feedback

Finally, hold yourself accountable to high standards. Remember to:

• Acknowledge that it is your name on the license, not your manager’s or your organization’s
• Maintain a current knowledge of your nurse practice act
• Belong to and support at least one professional nursing organization
• Document appropriately and according to nursing standards of practice

Source: The Image of Nursing: Perspectives on Shaping, Empowering, and Elevating the Nursing Profession.