As professional men and women, we communicate directly with our thoughts and indirectly with our appearance. To be successful, both must be working in unison to achieve our goals.

From the interview to the executive meeting to negotiating with a client, our appearance plays a critical role because our looks, whether good or bad, influence our message.

Just as the design and style of a Web site can be as important as the information it conveys, so is our appearance. Web sites give us a peek into a company’s culture, while our dress, hair, and fashion choices give companies a peek into our individual culture. And, just as a poorly designed Web site will turn off potential customers, so will an inappropriate, sloppy, or unkempt look. Power pros are deliberately well-groomed and well-dressed and are always styling themselves for the part. After your resume, a smart style begins the process of establishing an image to capture your audience and lift your ideas into action.

Since first impressions are lasting ones, we need to enter the first interview demonstrating we are as classy on the outside as we are on the inside. Evaluators can either think: Smart as a whip but the ruffles on her shirt were too long and draped over her clip books. Or: He had a grasp of our business model but he was wearing cowboy boots that clunked. Or: Smart as a whip and smart dresser. Perfect to send to meet a client. Strong grasp of our business model and meticulously dressed.

Your appearance will reflect on the company for which you work. To earn the respect and confidence of the interviewer, take the time to learn as much as you can about their executives, employees, culture, and customers. Dress and style yourself for appealing to each level, from the interviewer to your new boss to your co-workers to company clients and their customers.

Tasteful and stylish dress does not have to be expensive, but it does have to be respectful and sensitive to the environment you are entering. Appearance, dress, and fashion choices will be monitored side by side with your professional achievements. Pay attention when you open those closet doors in the morning. And as you continue renewing professional licenses, certifications, and continuing education, make sure you keep up with the latest fashion and styles, too!

Here are this week’s letters:

Dear Jen:

My boss spilled coffee in the morning and it got all over my skirt and I could not go home and change. Even though it was his fault, I sensed he was turned off by my appearance. Any recommendations?

– Rebecca New York, NY

Dear Rebecca:

No matter the circumstances, working with someone all day wearing unclean clothes is a turn-off! Whether it’s coffee or a run in your stockings, be prepared. Always have a back-up outfit (nylons, shirt, slacks, flats) that can fit nicely in your desk or nearby closet.

Dear Jen:

My kids love giving me wild ties with cartoons, ballparks, and beer designs. I work in finance, so I try to keep my clothing very conservative. Would these ever be appropriate to wear without compromising promotion possibilities?

– Bob Newark, NJ

Dear Bob:

Actually, funky ties are quite fashionable but also send out an impression that might not fit with your no-nonsense workplace. They are okay during a planned office lunch or maybe customer appreciation day, when a serious but fun mood is in the air.

Ms. Silano Foy is president of eFashion Solutions, LLC and has been a consultant in the fashion industry for more than 10 years. Send workplace or corporate fashion questions to styleforsuccess@aol.com.