In the professional world, image or appearance plays a pivotal role in boosting self-confidence while serving as a framework for assessing credibility and reputation, both within institutional and organizational settings. Contrary to common stereotypes, a professional image is not derived solely from physical appearance or cosmetics used to enhance your look.

A professional image is also shaped by attitude, language usage, and—given the rapid pace of the digital era—even search history, social media likes, and reposts serve as tangible evidence that defines the image of Kawan UNDIRA (UNDIRA friends). Therefore, gaining knowledge about Professional Image, though it may seem trivial, is highly influential in shaping character, especially in today's modern landscape.

According to the book "Professional Image: Mengembangkan Citra Profesional Terbaik" (Professional Image: Developing the Best Professional Image), which explores the essence of this topic, Professional Image can be categorized into distinct types, each with varied characteristics and explanations.

1. Mirror Image

Mirror Image is a form of Professional Image that is uniquely formed not by external influences, but from within ourselves. If Kawan UNDIRA is familiar with the phrase "You are What You Think," this is the foundational principle of Mirror Image. In short, what crosses our minds governs how we present ourselves daily.

Behavior, style of dress, dining etiquette, and even body gestures are reflections of what we are currently feeling. According to Goffman (1959), Self-Image can be influenced more intensively by individuals through a continuous process of internalization, where individuals evaluate and interpret their experiences and social interactions.

2. Current Image

According to Grunig and Hunt (1984), Current Image is the result of communication and behavior visible to others. Simply put, the Current Image refers to a personal formation influenced by the flow of conversation between individuals or specific groups.

Managing Current Image through adjustments in tone and communication context is crucial for maintaining reputation while building strong and trustworthy relationships.

3. Corporate Image

Corporate Image is one of the most vital intangible assets for a company's sustainability. This image is not merely a visual identity like a logo or slogan, but a comprehensive reflection of values, service quality, and the reputation embedded in the minds of stakeholders.

Therefore, building and maintaining a positive image is an absolute prerequisite for winning market trust amidst increasingly competitive industry rivalry.

4. Multiple Image

Multiple Image is a type of Professional Image that is adaptive, similar to Corporate Image, but the difference here lies in its more dynamic implementation.

We can see direct examples in formal and informal communication, especially in the context of audience management on social media platforms where persona placement varies simultaneously. This not only maintains authenticity but also enriches individual expression to attract stakeholders.

5. Performance Image

Performance Image is the perception formed in the consumer's mind regarding how well a product or service performs its main function and meets expected technical quality standards.

The main focus of this image lies in functional aspects and utility, such as reliability, durability, speed, as well as the effectiveness of individuals or groups in presenting an outward appearance, ethics, and work ethos that demonstrate professionalism and neatness in accordance with professional norms. This is essential to increase the level of trust between parties.

Ultimately, mastery of these five dimensions of professional image is not enough to be understood only theoretically; it must be honed through structured character education. The Communication Science Study Program at UNDIRA is here to answer that challenge through its Marketing Communication and Public Relations concentrations, specifically designing a curriculum to build strong personal branding.

One of the practical outputs of the Communication Science Study Program, namely Table Manner, emphasizes the direct practice of student Professional Image while ensuring every graduate possesses the ethics, aesthetics, and character ready to compete at the highest levels of the professional world.