It's not who you know, it's what you wear. Well, not exactly, but your office attire speaks volumes. Here's how to make over your message.

Clothes maketh the man, they say. And it’s true. The clothes you wear have a major impact on how people perceive you. In fact, the people you work with have already built up their own perceptions, opinions and judgements about you not only based on who you are and what you’re good at but also on what you wear. In other words, they’ve “branded” you.

And as your company’s representative, your dress code etiquette is very important. The client you’re about to walk to your boss’ office will judge you by what you’re wearing and will go as far as judging the company based on your attire too. Therefore those one-size-too-small jeans you insist on wearing are not just detrimental to your figure, but they’re twice as detrimental to you, and to your company’s reputation.

Cringing? Here’s how you can rebrand yourself.

Understand your brand

To know what needs changing, you’re going to have to start off by finding out what the people you work with think about you. A colleague, mentor or HR representative might be your trusted go to person. Ask him to describe how you’re currently perceived by others based on your dress code. And take an honest look at yourself compared to your respected colleagues. As dress codes can mean different things in different companies, ask yourself: “If suddenly I were called into a meeting with my seniors, could I go dressed in what I’ve chosen to wear today?”

Read: Career advice no one tells you

Identify your new look

If you’re vying for a promotion, no one’s going to take you seriously if you rock up to the office in your noisy flip flops. And certainly not in a conservative environment where the dress code is formal. The same principle applies in an environment where jeans and sneakers are the staples. While it’s okay to dress above your company’s dress code, walking into the office with your church attire might be inconsistent with the company’s culture. Align your new look with the company standards.

Make the change

Now that you know what brand you want to be known for, it’s time to upgrade your wardrobe. Remember that what you’re really trying to do is update your personal style, not look like a runway model. Keep the skyscraper heels and tuxedos out of the office.

Looking good? Read these tips before asking for a promotion. Alternatively, you can simply upload your CV and search for the job of your dreams.