It’s sad but it’s also true.
Your appearance has been shown to have a direct impact on your professional prospects.
When you want a shot at that raise, promotion, or new position, your looks will almost always factor into the final decision. There are several reasons behind this including being considered more able, more confident and having the appearance of better social skills.
So, the question is, how can those of us who weren’t born with supermodel looks use this to our advantage?
There are three key areas to focus on that can make just enough of a difference to change your career outcomes.
Let’s start by discussing one of the simplest tweaks you can make.
- Tailoring Your Wardrobe for the Job
The clothing, shoes and accessories that you wear to the office or an interview can have a large impact on how others perceive you.
Dressing well can also influence you psychologically and increase your confidence and productivity.
Choosing clothing that is flattering and more on the formal side is one way to distinguish yourself from others in the workplace. Well-crafted shoes with a thicker sole or a bit of a heel can improve your appearance as well.
You don’t have to bankrupt yourself to put together a strong wardrobe but it is an investment that can be well worth it.
- Tuning Up Your Social Skills and Body Language
One of the advantages experienced by attractive people is the impression of having stronger social skills.
Improving your skills can result in great professional benefits – and in order to do this, you also need to focus on body language.
For example, taller people tend to be viewed as more youthful and looked to as leaders. While you can’t change your height, you can improve your posture to enhance your perceived attractiveness.
Evaluating your social skills and body language can be a great starting point to get yourself on track to a stronger professional presence.
- Cultivating a Youthful Appearance
Youth is a strong component in the perception of beauty, and can create a “halo effect” around other characteristics and traits.
This cognitive bias influences an observer’s overall impression of another person. For example, if the observer makes note of a youthful, attractive appearance, they may also associate traits such as intelligence with that person even if they have no evidence to support this idea.
Age discrimination has been seen to occur in the workplace as early as 35, but there are some simple tools and tactics that can be used to offset this issue. Some quick ways to cultivate a more youthful appearance involve posture, clothing and personal grooming.
You can also take advantage of modern advances to turn back the clock. There are various beauty products that promote hair growth, skin cell regeneration and wrinkle reduction. Anti-aging skin care systems, such as ASEA Science, can support your quest for a more youthful appearance and continued career advancement.
