Appearance, attire, and body language—these elements play a huge role in the business world. Some folks might not like to admit it, but it's an undeniable truth.
The way you present yourself significantly influences how others perceive and interact with you.
If you want to be taken seriously, you need to look the part.
Just take a moment to consider. Who do you take more seriously?
The person in a sharp suit with a neat haircut, or the one wearing an oversized graphic T-shirt that says "Star Wars"?

You know how bankers always seem to be in suits and doctors are usually in white coats? There's a good reason for that!

Looks matter

If you want people to take you seriously, it's important to show that you know what you're doing. Earning respect is key.
Think about it. Would you really take a lawyer in shorts and flip-flops seriously? Probably not, right?

Looking good in a business setting is important for a bunch of reasons.
It's not just about making a great impression on others.
It's also about boosting your own confidence when you know you look sharp.

The right appearance

1. First impression

2. Signals authority

3. Confidence

4. Respect
   

First impression:
You know, it only takes about 7 seconds to form a first impression. In that tiny window, we quickly decide if someone seems likable and competent.
Once you get the hang of making a great first impression, people are more likely to give you the benefit of the doubt. It's surprising how many folks overlook this crucial aspect, putting themselves at a real disadvantage.
Most people just wing it during those initial moments, not realizing that our subconscious minds are already making important decisions.

Dressing the part can really make a great impression, showing others that you're capable, dependable, and successful.

Signals authority:
How people see you and how confident they are in your abilities is super important. There can be a big gap between how skilled you actually are and how skilled you seem to others. Just because you're great at something doesn't always mean you look like you are, and the opposite is true too.

Research has found that we tend to see people in uniforms as more capable and trustworthy. Think about police officers, firefighters, or doctors—they're perfect examples of this!
When we see a police uniform, we instantly think of authority. That's why some con artists dress up as police officers when they're up to no good.

Imagine you have an accident and need to go to the hospital.
Who would you feel more comfortable with? The doctor in the white coat or the person in sandals and a tank top?

The same idea applies in the business world. We tend to see someone in a suit as more capable than someone who isn't dressed as sharply.

Confidence:
As Georges St-Pierre said it, “if you look good, you feel good, and if you feel good, you do good”.
Being well-groomed and well-dressed feels good. This feeling will automatically boost your confidence.

When you believe in yourself, it really shines through.
Let me share a little secret. Confidence is key. When you trust in your abilities and know your stuff, you give off a vibe that everyone around you can sense.

Respect:
Imagine you're about to have a meeting with a new supplier, and two salespeople you've never met before walk in. One is dressed in sandals and jean shorts, while the other looks like he hasn't seen a barber in ages.
To top it off, both of them have a noticeable smell of alcohol and cigarettes.
Are you really going to business with them?
No, of course not. You’ll try and end the meeting as soon as possible.

Here's the deal: when someone takes the time to dress the part, we really notice and appreciate it. Putting in the effort to look good shows that you respect the task at hand and the person you're interacting with.
It’s like saying: "Hey, this is important to me, and so are you."

In conclusion

To succeed in business, it's important to present yourself in a certain way. While some might argue that appearance doesn't matter, the reality is quite different.

Dressing the part can do wonders for both your confidence and how others perceive you. When you look put-together, it shows that you respect the other person's time and that the project is important to you.
You don't always need to wear a tailored suit or the most expensive makeup, but making an effort to look well-groomed and well-dressed can make a big difference.
It's all about presenting yourself as if you've already achieved success.
Like it or not, appearance matters.


Thank you for reading.