Do Looks Really Matter?

John Lennon wrote the lyrics-“Got to be good lookin’ cause it’s so hard to see.” What about the old adage that “you can’t judge a book by it’s cover? Who’s right? There is truth in both statements but when it comes to your presentation it helps to look good. And it’s even better to be good looking.

Consider this. You may buy a book based on the table of contents (what’s inside). But the reason you pick it up off the shelf is because of the book cover. It looks attractive. The title calls out to you. The colors catch your eye.

Why? Because the first communication is visual. How you look sends a message. In a leadership position people expect you to look like a leader. So you can have outstanding credentials but if you walk into a room hunched over, if your hair isn’t attractively coiffed, if your suit isn’t well tailored and your heels are worn, PEOPLE WON’T THINK YOU’RE A LEADER.

In the 1987 movie Broadcast News, David Hurt was an aspiring journalist who was not as bright as his experienced competitor. But because of his good, clean cut looks the TV station bumped him up to anchorman. He didn’t even realize that his success was due to having the right look.

The most beautiful fashion model isn’t always selected for a photo shoot. But you can bet she has the right look to sell that product.

Think about executive presence. It’s difficult to define but we all know it when we see it. During the recent U.S. Republican presidential debate there was one person who was more presidential than the others-Mitt Romney. He was polished, well-spoken, confident and good looking. He looked presidential. Some broadcasters thought he won the debate.
I listened to some family members’ comments during the broadcast.
They commented on one candidate who “needs to learn how to part his hair” and another candidate who “keeps pointing his finger at us.” The candidates didn’t seem presidential by their appearance or demeanor.

Recently, a high level politician appeared on a talk show. A friend took one look at him and said, “This guy looks like he rolled out of bed. For God sakes, pay someone to comb your hair and straighten your tie.” These are reactions from the average citizen.

How much higher are your stakes when you’re presenting at a conference, an analyst meeting, or an IPO road show? If you’re a new supervisor, do you look the part or are you showing up at work in sloppy attire?

So in the workplace maybe John Lennon’s lyrics would read, “Got to have the right look cause it’s so hard to see.”