Professional style has its benefits. Ask Erin Kragenbrink. | Carrie McConkey

Erin Kragenbrink may be the only person you’ll meet whose eyes light up when she talks about insurance. And if her clients don’t have a “light bulb” moment on a daily basis, she feels she hasn’t done her job.

The 44-year-old health insurance and benefits broker hails from Neenah, Wisconsin, but moved to Knoxville in 1991 when her father was transferred from Kimberly-Clark’s corporate headquarters to the company’s downtown office. She began a career in the insurance industry over 20 years ago, and in 2015 founded 3to99 LLC, a full-service benefits company, with her husband, Kevin.

Kragenbrink’s decades of industry experience shine whether she is discussing life insurance with an individual or training small business team members on how to best manage their benefits packages. Known for making an otherwise dry subject “fun,” the UT College of Business graduate also gains her clients’ trust with her head-to-toe polished image. Recently, I spoke with Kragenbrink about her professional style.

Knox News: Did an individual or particular life experience influence your sense of style? 

Erin Kragenbrink: Surprisingly, my younger brother Adam had a strong influence over my style. I grew up as more of a “tomboy” rather than reading style magazines or articles on hair and makeup. But as my brother and I got older, we did more together, and he really helped me make good choices when I was shopping, or he would look through the things I owned and recommend pieces I would have never thought to pair together.

My mother was also a huge influence from the time I was very young — we always went to church in our “Sunday best,” which meant a dress, stockings, dress shoes with heels and the whole works. It was unacceptable to wear pants and jeans. My heaven, Mom would have been mortified!

What are some elements of your signature look? Did they happen on purpose, or by accident? 

I’ve never really thought of myself as having a “signature” look. However, I almost always wear my hair up in a very sleek style. This wasn’t intentional. I’ll be honest, I think as professional women, the pressure to look our very best when we step out into the world can be extremely high. I spend enough time in front of the mirror working on makeup, clothes, jewelry, etc. that I don’t have the extra 20 minutes for hair anymore. If anything, with my hair up, I look (and feel) more professional and put together.

I also think the color palette you choose for your wardrobe makes more of a difference than the piece itself. Know your skin tones and if warm or cool colors look better on you. When the colors you’re wearing make your skin, hair color, and eyes pop, you’ll look brighter, more energetic, and confident, and you’ll instantly garner attention and respect.

You’re a woman in a traditionally male industry. How has having a well-defined professional image helped your career?  

For me, this has been huge. I’m not sure I would have risen in the ranks, had the opportunities that I’ve had, or been nearly as respected in my industry without a strong professional image. The reality is that people make judgments about us in the first 30 to 60 seconds that they see us. So, I dress the part and let my appearance make the first impression before I even open my mouth to say a word.

You’ve been highly successful in a competitive field. How has your professional image contributed to your longevity?  

From a young age, I knew I wanted to be a successful businesswoman. I wouldn’t play house and school; I’d go get my dad’s briefcase and suit jacket and play “business” [laughs].

I think you develop a reputation of being consistent and reliable through the image you create and project. That makes clients feel very comfortable, like they are partnered with someone they can rely on. It also makes it easier for them to give referrals.

What advice would you give to a young man or woman on how to recognize their own professional image and personal style?  

Remember that not all of us are bound for Wall Street or professional sports, but we can still have a professional image and personal style within our sphere of influence. When you see someone and think, “I want their job,” or, “I want to be like them,” emulate their appearance. Never dress for the job you have, dress for the one you want.

Also, surround yourself with people you trust, and listen to them. When they compliment you on a style or look, remember that, and build on it. You can never be overdressed for a situation if you are comfortable and confident. It’s not about the clothing itself, but your attitude while wearing it.

Finally, hold your head high, shoulders back, smile, and let your appearance and body language tell the room you belong.

Freelance writer Carrie McConkey helps her clients pen memorable copy and content through her Knoxville-based business, Carrie M. Creative. She’s a 2013 Leadership Knoxville alumna and Greater Knoxville Business Journal 40 Under 40 honoree. Ms. McConkey can be reached through her website at carriemcconkey.com.

Erin Kragenbrink’s Professional Image Tips

Think quality over quantity in your wardrobe.

Determine your best colors by visiting a makeup counter, or observe family members who have similar skin and hair tones.

Choose classic pieces that will be in style for a long time.

Look for solid-color clothing that can be changed with accessories.

Learn by trial and error what is flattering to your body type, and stick with it.

Make sure what you put on gives you a feeling of comfort and confidence. If it gives you a feeling of insecurity, take it off. (Better yet, get rid of it.)

This article originally appeared on Knoxville News Sentinel: Professional style has its benefits. Ask Erin Kragenbrink.