Dressing for success is not a myth.
People see you differently, and they treat you differently.
They form trust and respect around this.
Good for your parents for instilling that in you.
I agree.
People DO treat me differently. And I understand that.
I had to go onsite last Saturday night for an upgrade we were doing that would have me there until the morning, and I got dressed as I always do when working. I could have put on jeans and a t-shirt, but...I work with other areas, and also in the presence of patients, so...I wish to look professional. It does matter.
Funny, I am the only one on my team who wears a shirt and tie, the rest wear polo shirts and such, which...given their job is perfectly appropriate.
I am older than all of them, and all the young-uns poke me in good nature about my appearance, but...as I approach the end of my professional portion of life, I am not about to change...:)