subject: A Professional Appearance Gives You The Edge [print this page] You can bust your hump selling, writing reports, managing every body's problems ALL DAY long, and still miss out on impressing the powers-that-be.
If you cornered Mr. Big at work and asked: "Do you give even a remote damn what I wear to work (assuming it's within the company code)?" I'm guessing he would reply, "Nope, just do your job". And that's exactly what you would say to an underling of yours who asked the same question.
BUT, take that one step further to the emotional level...when you are considering which of your own subordinates to promote?
Of two men who consistently produce the best numbers, wouldn't the man who is additionally visually impressive and demonstrates neatness and attention to detail whether it's his car, his desk or his clothing get your vote?
Of two men who produce the highest quality product, analysis or reporting, wouldn't the man who utilizes confident body language and connects emotionally with others by use of genuine smiles, eye contact and warm handshakes during communication get your vote?
Of two men who tell you that they have the companies' best interest at heart, yet one of them clearly makes more of a commitment in his own presentation and how it reflects on the company when out on the road; wouldn't he get your vote?
If the answer is yes, you are like 99% of the human race.
Judgements and decisions about you are made on an emotional level every second of every day. You still have to do your job anyway, why not be the guy who gets the promotion first?
