Proper etiquette isn't just about politeness; it's a practical skill for managing stress and projecting calm confidence in high-stakes environments. This mindset helps you appear more trustworthy and approachable, preventing you from seeming desperate or transactional.

To distinguish between utility and status, ask yourself what house, car, or clothes you would choose if you lived where no one could see them. This exercise reveals what brings you genuine personal value, separate from the desire for social validation from people who likely aren't paying attention anyway.

The vest has become a uniform in finance and tech because it's one of the few items of clothing that can be acceptably branded in a corporate setting. It acts as a "wearable business card," silently communicating one's company, industry, and status, fulfilling a deep-seated human desire to belong to a tribe.

Everyone has a personal brand, whether intentional or not. The key is to close the gap between how you see yourself and how others perceive you. Proactively define what you want to be known for, then consistently communicate and demonstrate that brand to prevent misunderstandings and career stagnation.

While an online presence is valuable, your most impactful brand is defined by offline interactions. How you conduct yourself in person—your kindness, professionalism, and commitment to growth—is what truly builds the trust that closes deals, far more than any social media post.

Your attire is a powerful non-verbal cue. Dressing appropriately for the customer's environment—whether a farm or a boardroom—is a sign of respect. It demonstrates you understand their world and that the relationship is about them, not your personal style, which is crucial for building initial trust.

After an in-person meeting, don't just leave your used coffee cup on the table. Asking where you can put it is a simple but powerful gesture of respect and humility that shows you are aware of your surroundings and don't take service for granted.

When dining with a client or investor, let them set the tone. By waiting to order, you can match their lead on whether to get starters, the price point of entrees, and the overall length of the meal, demonstrating your social awareness.

The founder argues that consumers wearing large logos are often compensating for a lack of confidence. Quiet luxury brands appeal to self-assured individuals who want their own story to be the focus, positioning the brand as a choice for the accomplished.