Whether evading Gold Finger, romancing Ursula Andress, or kicking back a double martini lunch, 007 and the advertising king of Madison Avenue clearly appreciate the importance of packaging.
A Crooked Tie is Counterintuitive
Whether it a traditional Windsor, exotic Trinity or stylish Cavendish, a loose, crooked, sloppy knot is telling. It’s off-putting, and distracting from your message.
As a Communication Executive, while analyzing a debate, interview or speech, I closely observe content, body language and delivery. But I’m also keenly aware of a well tied knot. While covering the White House and Capitol Hill I always took note of whose tie was askew. It’s a distracting non-verbal message that speaks volumes to both reporters and the audience alike.
For Women It’s About Lipstick
Lipstick, for women, is the number one non-verbal visual most people notice. Witness, the infamous Monica Lewinsky, Barbara Walters interview, and lipstick sales. The former Clinton intern’s lipstick, Glaze, by Club Monaco sold out the next day.
Let’s face it: a Man’s Tie is His Primary Fashion Statement
A tie selection and the way it’s knotted is an opportunity for a man make a declaration. Fun, fancy, conservative, liberal, red, blue or purple, the neck tie sends a message. So, what does a crooked tie convey? How about “I don’t care enough” or “this presentation isn’t that important” to double check the details. A knot to the left, right, or with space at the top tells me the man is not ready for prime time or needs to fire his support staff.
So the next time you go before the cameras, board of directors or toast your daughter at her wedding, take a moment, check your tie. Be like James and Don and keep it straight.
-Susanne LaFrankie, M.A
