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Executive Presence Scorecard:
How Polished Is Your Professional Image?
Your image speaks before you do. Take this quick quiz to discover how your presence is perceived—and where you can elevate your influence.
1. How would you describe your daily professional wardrobe?
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Q1
A
Always polished & intentional.
B
Usually appropriate, but not always intentional.
C
I often feel unsure about what to wear.
2. Do you know your best colors and how they impact your presence?
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2. Do you know your best colors and how they impact your presence?
A
Yes, I dress in colors that enhance my features.
B
Somewhat – I stick to neutrals but don’t know what works best.
C
No, I wear whatever is easiest.
3. How well do your clothes fit your body type?
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Q3
A
Perfectly – Everything is tailored or well-fitted.
B
Somewhat – I get lucky with some outfits, but others don’t fit well.
C
Poorly – I struggle with fit and often feel frumpy or uncomfortable.
4. Does your wardrobe reflect the professional image you want to project?
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Q4
A
Yes – My style aligns with my career aspirations.
B
Somewhat – I know what I should wear, but I don’t always do it.
C
No – I don’t think my wardrobe supports my goals.
5.
Do you plan your outfits in advance or throw them together last-minute?
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Q5
A
Always planned – I dress with purpose.
B
Sometimes – I try, but it’s inconsistent.
C
Last-minute – I grab whatever is clean and go.
6. When introducing two people in a business setting, do you know the correct order of introduction?
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Q6
A
Yes, I always introduce the more senior person first.
B
I usually get it right, but sometimes second-guess myself.
C
No, I just introduce people randomly.
7. How well do your personal and professional brands work together in how you dress, communicate, and present yourself?
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Q7
A
They complement each other well, creating a cohesive and consistent presence across all aspects of my life.
B
They generally align, but there are times when my personal style or approach could better support my professional image.
C
There are noticeable gaps between my personal and professional brands, and I often struggle to ensure both reflect the same values and goals.
8. Do you know the subtle etiquette rules of formal dining?
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Q8
A
Yes, I’m confident in table settings, ordering, and conversation flow.
B
Somewhat – I know basic manners but sometimes feel unsure.
C
No, I avoid business meals because I feel out of place.
9. How do you maximize small talk for strategic relationship-building at events?
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Q9
A
I use it as a tool, steering conversations toward valuable insights and future collaboration.
B
I engage well but sometimes miss opportunities to make discussions more strategic.
C
I haven’t refined my method for making small talk purposeful in high-level settings.
10. When entering a high-stakes gathering (boardroom, gala, or formal event), how do you ensure your presence is noted?
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Q10
A
I calibrate my approach based on the setting, ensuring immediate recognition without overstatement.
B
I enter with confidence, but I’m not always sure how to adjust for different environments.
C
I’ve never deliberately optimized my entrance for varying levels of formality.
11. Do you instinctively know when to offer a handshake vs. wait for the other person?
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Q11
A
Yes, I read the situation and initiate appropriately based on seniority, context, etc.
B
Sometimes – I hesitate or second-guess myself.
C
No, I either jump the gun or awkwardly wait.
12. How precise is your body language when managing power dynamics in professional settings?
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Q12
A
I adjust my posture and proximity based on subtle cues, ensuring I control the interaction.
B
I’m conscious of body language but don’t always fine-tune it for specific contexts.
C
I rely on instinct but haven’t analyzed the nuances of spacing, gestures, and positioning.
13. What’s your approach to accessorizing?
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Q13
A
Thoughtful – I use accessories to elevate my look.
B
Minimal – I wear basics but don’t experiment much.
C
I don’t really think about accessories.
14. How confident are you in your shoe choices?
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Q14
A
Always polished – My shoes are stylish and appropriate for the occasion.
B
Sometimes – I have good pairs but don’t always choose the best option.
C
I struggle to find shoes that complete my look.
15. Do you optimize your professional image for different business settings, both in-person and remote?
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Q15
A
Yes—I adjust strategically, ensuring my presence aligns with the expectations of each format.
B
I maintain a professional image but haven’t fully refined the visual impact for virtual vs. in-person engagements.
C
I adapt based on comfort rather than consciously curating my image for each context.
16. Do you know how to adjust your wardrobe for different levels of formality?
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Q16
A
Yes, I can seamlessly adapt my style for any setting, from Business Casual to Black Tie.
B
Somewhat – I understand it but don’t always execute well.
C
No, I often feel unsure about what’s appropriate.
17. When was the last time you updated or refined your wardrobe?
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Q17
A
Within the last year – I stay intentional about my style.
B
1-3 years ago – I’ve made some updates but could improve.
C
More than 3 years ago – My wardrobe is outdated.
18. When meeting someone in a leadership position, do you know the correct etiquette for addressing them?
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Q18
A
Yes, I always use formal introductions until invited otherwise.
B
I try to be respectful, but I sometimes misstep.
C
No, I often default to casual introductions.
19. How prepared are you for interactions with professionals from different cultural or business backgrounds?
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Q19
A
I adapt seamlessly, adjusting my approach based on regional business norms and expectations.
B
I’m aware of cultural differences but sometimes miss nuances that could impact rapport or negotiations.
C
I rely on general professionalism but haven’t developed a clear framework for navigating international business etiquette.
20. How do you exit conversations at an insider/industry event without missing opportunities?
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Q20
A
I transition purposefully, using seamless closings that leave the door open for future engagement.
B
I exit politely but haven’t optimized my method to ensure continued rapport.
C
I sometimes miss the moment to transition and risk either overstaying or leaving abruptly.
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