You probably think this blog is about you...
This topic recently came up in conversation and it really got me thinking. Do attractive people get more opportunities?
The short answer is, yes.
While I like to think we get ahead in life because of talent, hard work, and ambition, research has shown us otherwise.
Physically attractive individuals are more likely to be interviewed for jobs and get hired, are more likely to advance rapidly in their careers through frequent promotions, and they earn higher wages than unattractive individuals.
Psychologists call it the "beauty premium." Unfortunately, there is an income gap between attractive and unattractive people that some may say is comparable to the gap between genders or ethnicities.
So, what does this have to do with finance? Well, probably a lot more than you may think.
We have all heard that saying, “you only get one chance to make a first impression.”
First impressions occur within the first few seconds of meeting someone, and that impression is most often based on a person's physical appearance. There is just no way around that. There has been substantial evidence indicating that attractive people come across as more confident, trustworthy, healthier, and have an easier time in society.
In researching this topic, I found that in the United States, less than 15% of men are over 6 feet tall, but 58% of Fortune 500 companies are led by CEOs who are over 6 feet tall. Studies by the University of Florida showed that tall men earn more money than shorter co-workers. WHAT??
Humans want to be liked and accepted by those they believe are better than they are. Therefore, when a beautiful person needs help, they are more likely to get it. But beauty is not a strong predictor of overall happiness or life satisfaction. Gorgeous people are not happier than homely folks.
Let’s face it, most people are not born with perfectly symmetrical faces, naturally good physique, or a charming personality. Not everyone gets the attractive genes each parent has to offer. So, can people lacking in attractiveness still get business opportunities? Yes, of course! Making changes like dressing better, taking care of your hair, and applying makeup will only go so far if you don’t have the skills to do the job, or you have the personality of a sloth.
Being “less attractive” doesn’t have to take away from your opportunities. There are many things that you can do to make yourself feel more confident in your own skin and convey to others that you are confident in who you are.
Smile more often. Research shows that smiling makes you automatically more appealing.
Speak clearly and concisely. Intelligence is linked with attractiveness. Raise your attraction level by speaking in a way that shows your intelligence and value. (Standing tall helps too)
Be kind and show empathy. Good-looking people tend to exhibit more positive traits, such as being kind or empathetic.
Be honest. No one likes someone who lies or cheats. If someone has mistrust in you, you will become less attractive to them.
Have a sense of humor. Laughter has been scientifically proven to attract people.
Don't stress out. Showing signs of stress can make people less attractive because it seems like they cannot overcome things in life or that they are easily affected by external forces.
There are many things that affect how much we can earn, including education, age, and health-not just looks. No matter what physical traits you are born with, there are many ways to make yourself more attractive and appealing to potential employers. Boosting self-esteem is one way to achieve this. Go into a field that you enjoy, and that you have an advantage in doing.
Focus your attention on your strengths and try to avoid things where you are relatively disadvantaged. You will find yourself in a happier place.
