How to Dress Like a Writer

Writing is a profession, but many freelance writers get caught up in the casualness of working at home. Dressing like a professional at home changes the work ethic and enhances the quality of writing. In many cases it distinguishes the serious writer from the hobbyist.

Things You'll Need

• A Professional Attitude For Your Writing Profession, A Closet Full of Commitment, Accessories for Success

Instructions

Look Like a Professional While You Work At Home

1. Dress like a professional. Business people meet daily, confidently pitching their ideas and marketing plans. They dress in smart business suits and trendy fashions. Successful individuals choose clothes that model their goals. Freelance writers are professionals also, but it is easy to create an environment that is too casual. This oversight can influence productivity. To dress like a professional writer, select something more than pajamas and lounge wear while working in a home office. A nice pair of slacks, a skirt for women or blue jeans are sensible and comfortable. Wearing a dress shirt or blouse instead of a T-shirt enables writers to feel more professional in their work environment. There is a core truth about "dressing for success."

2. Take care of personal appearance while working in a home office. Contemporary, flattering hairstyles and personal care encourage confidence. The confidence comes through in the language and style of a writer's work. Sometimes there is nothing more inspiring than a really good haircut. When a writer feels good about how she looks, the fresh attitude will spill out in other efforts.

3. Keep an agenda at all times. A day book with a calendar is essential. It is not only an accessory for looking like a professional, but deadlines, meetings and events are neatly organized. When a writer appears organized, there is an impression of control and reliability. In the home office, the freelance professional should have this business tool available every day. While networking with editors and fellow writers, the day book inspires smoothness in scheduling and completing assignments in a timely manner.

4. Carry a portfolio or clip book of published works. Nothing makes a writer look and feel more successful than a notebook filled with clips from recent publications. While working at home, the portfolio should be nearby as a testament of accomplishment and encouragement for current assignments. When meeting with editors and potential publishers, the clip-book is an impressive accessory, illustrating talent and ability. The clip-book should be simple in design without glaring graphics or distracting fonts. It should be sleek and professional. The writer's published works should be the most outstanding feature.

5. Believe that attention to details such as habits and appearance influence professionalism in works submitted to editors and publishers. Ready. Set. Be polished and published!