You’ve heard the classic, “First impressions are lasting impressions,” saying before. As much as this statement might inspire a “well duh!” reaction from some people, many often forget how much this rings true – especially in a medical office. Typically, most people go off of another’s appearance for their first impression before they have even had a chance to open their mouth. When your patients’ lives quite literally lie in your hands, it is crucial to exude confidence, competence, and professionalism to them so they will readily trust you. Start off your interactions on the right foot with our tips on how to create a professional, clean-cut look.

• Make sure that your undergarments are not showing through your scrubs. Even if you have the body of a Victoria’s Secret Angel or Fabio himself, nobody wants to see what your situation is underneath your scrubs. In an environment where cleanliness and a well-polished look is valued, be sure to: 1) Buy scrubs that flatter your body (not too tight or not to baggy!). 2) Wear light colored underwear (shades of nude) when you are sporting lighter-colored scrubs. 3) Ensure that your pants fit properly so the infamous “whale tail” won’t pop out of the top of your pants. Pick out the best, most flattering scrubs for your body type with the help of our “How to Dress for Your Body Type” infographic!
• Iron your scrubs or hang them up after washing/drying them. Unless you want to go for the hobo-chic look, it’s best if you make sure that your scrubs don’t have sloppy creases and folds after you’re done washing them. Even if your scrubs fit well and are very clean, the wrinkly look definitely does not create a good impression. Show your scrubs some love and hang them up! Or if you really love your scrubs, treat them right with a session on the ironing board.
• Don’t stain your reputation! Life as a medical practitioner is not exactly on the clean side…Who knows what bodily fluids/parts could wind up on your trendy scrubs on any given work day? Unfortunately, stains are not like battle scars, and will not give you a reputation as a hardcore veteran in the work place. To put it nicely, it will just gross everyone out. So make sure to treat your scrubs the second you get home! There are cleaners out there that will rid you of the most horrific stains. Check out our stain removal infographic to show you how to get out pesky, commonplace stains with simple steps!

• Keep your nails nice and trimmed! Your patients are already getting poked and prodded with needles…enough is enough! Keep a pair of clippers on deck to maintain a short, well-manicured nail length. Your patients and your un-broken nails will thank you!
• Tuck back your luscious locks. You may have the hair of the models featured on Pantene Pro-V commercials, but as a medical professional, it’s best if you keep your hair out of your face and out of the faces of your patients – as well as other questionable things your hair may wind up in.

What are some things you find important when dressing up for the job? We’d love to hear your experiences about what you have seen at your workplace!