Agony Aunt

"I am about to start my first lecturing job and wonder if I need a Follet-style makeover. Money is tight but I want to look professional for students and also approachable. Any tips?"

A lecturer. University of Poppleton

A. Julia Campion Image consultant with First Impressions and lecturer at Cranfield Institute

Credibility is important and you do not want to look out of touch. Looking current is not the same as looking fashionable. My experience is that many academics are so engrossed in their subject that they forget grooming basics. That sends a message, which is fine if it is an informed decision and you accept the consequences. But if you look shabby you will be pigeonholed. That is not to recommend dark suits and high heels. Most people need help to dress smart casual or tidy casual in coordinated clothes with a different look for different occasions. That might mean a good jacket worn with more relaxed skirts or trousers. If you see your image as a tool then it is worth taking time to think about it. People notice.

A. Monica Hicks Press and PR officer Association of University Teachers

It is better to err on the side of formality because you can become more relaxed as time goes on. If you have created the aura of being a slob, it is difficult to rectify. We all judge by appearances although we should not. What you wear to work depends a little on your subject. If you are teaching something creative and your views are anti-authoritarian your personal style might well reflect that. If you are dealing with business or organisational matters, you would probably want to look the part.

It is important to be comfortable, as teaching is quite a physical activity. Mix and match is probably a sensible wardrobe policy. Different departments have different styles and it makes sense to take your cues from that. And do not forget a different dress code may be appropriate for inter-departmental meetings than for straightforward teaching or hanging out around the office. In general, you are a professional and you have to be differentiated from students. The trick is not to be too far removed.

A. Jane McAdoo Lecturer in French Goldsmiths College University of London

Do not make the mistake of dressing too young or too old. It is quite common for new lecturers to try to add gravitas and years by dressing over-formally but it is a dreadful mistake. Clothes will not disguise you but they can help to create the right impression. Dressing smartly is part of professionalism. You would not give a sloppy handout and your image goes hand in hand with what you are offering to students. One of the first things I was told was to wear something different every day to give students some variety.

I think lecturers dress more formally now than they did ten years ago which is probably a reflection of the general professionalisation which has taken place. Ties really are the norm for men these days, I can think of very few colleagues who do not routinely wear them. And you would be hard-pressed to find a shabby corduroy jacket. Jeans are a very personal matter - some of my colleagues look marvellous in them and they can look very smart. I have a hunch that over-flamboyance is not really appropriate - it is usually better to be self-effacing. Leave the flamboyance to the students.