Appearance matters

“Don’t judge the book by its cover.” “Appearance deceives.” We’ve all heard these phrases from time to time and so hearing it and believing it affects us in a powerful way. There is a tendency to neglect our physical appearances believing that what’s in the inside is more important than what is seen on the outside.

I’ve got news for you. Zig Ziglar in his book entitled “Something to Smile About” tells us some interesting facts. According to a recent study, the way we look has a direct bearing on a paycheck. Researchers analyzed employment data from several thousand adults. They divided that group according to looks and then compared what those working similar jobs in each category were paid. Those who were below average in appearance earned less than those rated average. Those rated average earned less than those who were rated above average.

You’re probably thinking maybe it was the other way around. They had more money to buy more clothes compared to those who had less and were confined to a very limited array of clothing. But the report continues on saying otherwise. But consider this. Appearance includes many things. The style and neatness of your clothing, the shine on your shoes, the crease in your shirt, your choice of colors, and a host of other things affect your appearance rating. The way you fix your hair, your make up and all the element of your personal grooming make a contribution. However, the biggest factor is the smile on your face, followed by your attitude and your sense of humor. A good sense of humor and a positive attitude are particularly important as you move into the upper echelons of business. These are part and parcel of appearances.

Maintaining a good appearance does not have to deal with signature clothes and expensive jewelry. Fact is I have seen people all dressed up with the latest Italian initials yet the manner by which they conduct themselves, the way they wear their countenance and the words that come out of their mouth appear like garbage rejects from the gutters.

Clothes do not even have to be expensive. As long as they are neat, clean and worn in the right combination of colors. And of course, the most inexpensive but important thing you have to wear daily is a smile. People are always attracted to pleasant and friendly people. A lot of people who are endowed with a great appearance are not really pretty in face and figure, but they carry themselves well and they always exude charm.

The reality is that people promote people. When everything else is equal, we tend to promote the people we like. Skills sometimes come in second. The people who are pleasant, cheerful, and optimistic are easier to like than the ones who are inclined to be dour and even negative in their approach. It’s also true that the cheerful, optimistic person is going to get more done and will have more cooperation from the fellow workers than will negative individual. It’s practical matter that employers seek those who “fit in,” get more done, and are pleasant to be around.

So let your best appearance include a smile, a great attitude, and an easy sense of humor. And brace yourself for a pleasant surprise. You’ll see the change others will have toward you.

(Stop living paycheck to paycheck and start living a successful life! Attend the “Developing a Millionaire’s” Mindset seminar featuring Francis Kong and Chinkee Tan on Oct. 16 at the EDSA Shangri-La Hotel. Call 996-4610 or 8897763 or email [email protected] for details.)