[Image by Gerd Altmann of Pixabay]
We’ve all known that what we wear has results, but what you may not know is the term for this phenomenon which is enclothed cognition. This term was coined in 2012 by Adam and Galinsky in the journal of Social Psychology. According to Wikipedia, it refers to the overall influence that clothing has on the wearer’s psychological processes. This implies that what we wear dramatically influences both how we act and how others perceive us. That’s pretty powerful information.
In other words, there is symbolism attached to what we choose to wear and that comes with certain results. For example, if an individual wants to convey leadership, the clothes that are worn are typically more refined than the casual look that has become the norm across many U.S. companies and organizations. The implication here is that we adopt a certain state of mind when we dress in a particular manner where we’re seeking focus, intention and determination. As a leader, it sends a signal that we are present, engaged and ready to lead, according to Tim Huff of Bite Sized Leadership.
I believe that as public speakers that’s what we’re all striving for. When you want to convey to yourself as well as to your audience, that you’re well-armed with that extra layer of confidence, give some thought to enclothed cognition.