What I Learned Presenting to a ‘Big Four’ Accounting Firm

The Big Leagues Came Calling. By Janine Giorgenti I recently had the opportunity to present a ‘Dressing Strategically’ session for a ‘Big Four’ firm. It was an eye opening experience, and I certainly learned a lot

You see, when you’re dealing with professionals “in the big leagues”, everything counts; from the the branding, the messaging, website, ads, marketing materials right down to logos and business cards. That said, I came away with a very important piece of advice (straight from the top) regarding their most important ‘piece’ of marketing collateral – namely the the image of there Partners right down to the associates.

There is no doubt employees of the big four are among the brightest, with adept communicating skills and strategic brilliance. In this presentation – and many – I do for big law firms, insurance companies, brokerage firms, banks, and Fortune 500 organizations; I always deliver the same message. Your image counts!

A trend that I have noticed recently is that the term “business casual” has witnessed a regression of sorts of standard professional clothing conventions. Employees – many times – are confused about what business casual entails, and, will mix up professional attire with weekend and golf wear.

Personally, I feel that – with large firms and other top professional organizations – a standard of “situational dressing” should be the paradigm used for employees to adhere to. This will give structure – and a heirarchy – to a dressing protocol.

Rightfully, this ‘Big Four’ member firm wanted their employees to represent their brand to the highest standards. Among many dressing tips I shared I also gave the 6 commandments of dressing. Although my presentation is balanced for men and women, this is the hierarchy for men.

· The business suit is called business formal and has the highest level of authority.

· A sport coat with a shirt and tie with contrasting dress slacks is executive casual.

· The sport coat worn with an open collared shirt and contrasting dress slacks is business casual.

· A shirt and tie with dress slacks is the lowest level of business casual.

· An open collared dress shirt with dress slack tie is accepted, but beware because is extremely casual. The problem with this image is that it has no authority and one could be perceived as entry level or office staff.

· Sport shirts, jeans, and polo’s are not appropriate business attire for the ‘big league’ or for any firm who is working with high-level professionals or the C-suite executives.

On a personal note, I have to say that it was very refreshing to see the positive reaction (with a few laughs mixed in) that I received during and after the presentation which stemmed from these employees realizing the value of smart dressing and what it could do for them and their careers.

Book your presentation with Janine Giorgenti today to help your organization present a better image!

Janine has an extensive track record advising top companies on how to better present themselves and train their employees on dressing to – correctly – represent their brand and profession! Call (646) 957-6916 or click below to schedule time with Janine!

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About the Author

Janine Giorgenti For over 25 years, Janine Giorgenti, renowned fashion designer and image consultant – has provided a long line of satisfied clients with unparalleled service and first class made-to-measure custom suits. Featured in the Wall Street Journal, Vogue Magazine, The New York Times, CNN, Fox News, CBS, and other top media outlets – Janine has established a clientele of some of New York’s most successful and discerning professionals – including such New York dignitaries as former New York Islanders legend Bobby Nystrom and chief economist Dr. Irwin Kellner.