Looks matter! We all know and have come to accept the fact that appearances, though sometimes deceiving do play a part in how successful we are in life in general. It may come as a surprise to some however that looks matter in business as well. Although this may be a tough pill to swallow for those who believe that clients choose you based on your knowledge, products and customer care, looks do play a large part in the business world. Here are five reasons why looks matter in the business world :
- The first impression is a lasting impression
You only get once chance to make a great first impression and it’s rather difficult to recover from a bad one. The initial part of a first impression is based solely on the way you look; when someone sees you for the first time they make a judgment about you before you even have the chance to speak. Thus it’s important to make sure your look represents the message you want to convey through your words.
- Potential clients are more likely to listen to people they find attractive
This may sound a little crazy and off-putting but research along with many hidden camera T.V. shows have proven that it is in fact true. If we find a person attractive we would like to spend more time speaking with them and listen to what they have to say. Although what each person finds attractive differs individually the overall package you present (i.e. yourself) should come across as well groomed, friendly and professional.
- A professional look helps establish trust
Trust is a key component of winning and retaining clients. In order to gain a client’s business you have to win their trust first. You can gain a client’s trust by looking the part – what would you like a client to think when they see you? Clients usually like to do business with people they cant relate to and those who offer a professional service. It’s important to portray an image of professionalism and approachability. Clients need to know that you have the skills required to provide them with top quality products and services, but they also need to know that they can come to you and speak with you directly if they have a concern.
- Looking healthy portrays energy and motivation
Clients ultimately want to do business with people who work hard for them and provide them with the best products/services. As we are now living in the health and fitness revolution maintaining a healthy lifestyle and being in shape is exceedingly important in business. If you look like you take time to look after yourself and make healthy choices clients will notice; looking healthy conveys the message that you are motivated and energized. You don’t have to be a body builder or a fitness model to portray this image but you do need to take time to evaluate your own health and fitness, an area that many entrepreneurs overlook. Make time for you and the results both physical and financial will show.
- Your look represents your brand
The way you look is a non-verbal advertisement for your brand. Whether you realize it or not you make a fashion statement everyday with the clothes you choose, the way you do your hair and make up and the manner in which you carry yourself. As an entrepreneur it’s important to make sure that statement accurately represents the brand you’re trying to establish. People will judge your outfit, accessories, behavior etc. and try to draw parallels between them and the product/services you are trying to market. So before you step out each morning ask yourself – are you on brand? If not, it may be time to re-think that outfit or hairstyle.
Praveeni Perera is the CEO and co-founder of Professional Edge Consulting a corporate training company based in Ottawa offering training and coaching services to clients around the world. She can be reached via Website, Twitter, Facebook or her Blog.
