It’s the first week of the New Decade. A lot of pressure right? How are you stacking up? Having you given thought to how you want to look in 2010, or better, what you want others to think as you sashay across a room? Are you a Diva, stylish Mom, successful business owner, fashionista, effortlessly casual gal, creative chic chick or do you aspire to be one of these or something else? Here are some tips, resolutions even, to get you in the right frame of mind to start taking action to achieve your image goals.

1. Do you create a lasting, memorable and positive first impression? First impressions count and they're indelible. This is a judgmental culture and frankly people do judge a book by its cover. Don't underestimate how much power you have over perception. Go all out – dress impeccably and in alignment with your personal style and goals, ‘work’ your signature look, develop panache and élan. Take your presentation of yourself as seriously as you do your work and master the nuances of your image, personal style and communication that spell confidence and success. Need some more ideas? Read my article on wardrobe tuning-up.

2. How effectively do you communicate? Do people listen when you speak? Do you have the right tone and inflection in your voice? Do you enunciate your words? Statistics show that the way you speak and communicate are more important than what you actually say. Pay attention to you speaking voice, your gestures and non verbal cues. Be an active listener. Be engaged in the conversations you have with others.

3. Is your presence purposeful? ‘Presence’ –that ability to project a sense of ease, poise, or self-assurance is an energy and an attitude. It can be magnetic. When it is purposeful, you have created the equivalent of a slam dunk. Know your intention—the effect you want to convey to others. Then dress and act accordingly. Read my article on mistakes to avoid when dressing for success.

4. Are you poised? Are you aware of your posture when seated and standing? Good posture not only makes you look more commanding and in charge but also enhances the way you look—you actually look younger and slimmer. Yes! Stand straight and tall regardless of your height. People will notice, trust me. My article on shapewear shows you how to enhance your posture with a little help!

Happy 2010!

For more information: Happy New Year readers!! Got questions you want answered in my column? Drop me a line at Elan@elanimagemanagement.com. To subscribe to my column, please click on the link above to receive immediate updates when new articles are posted. In the DC area? Don't miss Elan Image Management's wardrobe bootcamp workshop on Saturday February 6th!