Yes, newbie, dressing for success still matters.

I didn’t have a mentor in the early stages of my corporate career, and because I didn’t, I made a few errors in decision-making, including those related to attire. Admittedly more of them occurred during the warm-weather months. Because I had spent a significant amount of money on an item, I had convinced myself that it was appropriate to be worn in any environment. Lack of knowledge and immaturity cost me at least one coveted opportunity in my career.

So are you among the recently hired? If so and your workspace has a dress code, do yourself a favor and adhere to it. Because if you don’t, even if someone isn’t approaching you about what may seem like a silly infraction or reminding you of the code’s existence, trust me someone somewhere is taking notes and not for good reasons.

Later in my career, as an authority figure, I took pleasure in mentoring women who entered the corporate space. Many of them, while highly-educated and eager to do well, lacked basic wisdom, tools, and resources needed to succeed in their new environment. Dressing for success still matters.

The goal is to adhere without losing yourself in the code. While dressing appropriately for your work environment is key, this doesn’t mean you have to forgo your personality or your sense of style. Get creative and find ways to personalize your attire with your unique brand of magic.

Like it or not, unless your name is on the building, on the entrance door, etc., you don’t make the rules when it comes to office attire. As a high-achiever, you sure as hell should be looking for opportunities to help change a few where needed, However, for now, play your position and learn. Seek and create opportunities as you work toward becoming a power player. And by all means, be prepared to reach back at some point and assist someone else to level up.