In business, whether real estate or not, when it comes to dressing for success, if you do not look the part, even if you act the part, you likely will not get the part. Properly suiting up matters just as first impressions surely do.
Clothes really do make a difference, the old adage updated for our time “clothes make the man or woman” has really stood the test of time. It has been shown that more folks will readily follow the direction of someone dressed in business attire than in a work shirt and trousers. Business suits are more authoritative. Men and women will more likely comply with the instructions of one wearing a uniform than regular work clothes. Same way you trust a doctor when they wear their white coat and look the part.
Studies have shown that different color clothing helps you to stand out. So do clothing accessories. The color red makes men more attractive to women and women more attractive to men. Glasses make you appear more intelligent.
DIFFERENT SCHOOLS OF THOUGHT FOR REAL ESTATE
One school of thought is to dress like your clients, the thought being the client will relate to them better. Selling expensive homes, dress the part. Yet, another approach is dress the same for all prospective clients and contacts no matter the venue.
HOW TO DRESS FOR PROFESSIONAL SUCCESS
With the old proverb “When in Rome do as the Romans do” in mind, there are some practical guidelines to allow you to look suitably professional whether you are attending an REIA meeting, an auction, with a seller or buyer, or having a lunch with a private money investor.
Golf or collared shirts are generally good choices for men. Loud, flowery prints or overly baggy shirts are not. Dress slacks, nice business casual khakis, no denim. No baseball caps. No tank tops, tee shirts, mesh shirts, warm up pants, sweats, any athletic wear. Of course, if your business venture takes you to a farm or ranch, dressing appropriately in denim, boots, even a hat may then be appropriate.
Men should either be clean shaven or neatly trimmed. Get a haircut, no scraggly, unkempt long hair. Wear a button up collar shirt and a nice pair of khakis not a three piece suit when calling on that seller or buyer. Dress shoes, no sneakers or sandals.
Women should wear either dresses, shirts, slacks with blouses, jackets and sweaters if weather appropriate. No revealing tops, halter tops, tee shirts, cut-offs, blue jeans, tennis wear, shorts of any kind. They should wear makeup in moderation, slacks and a skirt, nothing too fancy. Always wear socks or stockings, never wear sandals or flip flops. Shoes should always be in good shape.
WHY YOU MUST DRESS FOR REAL ESTATE INVESTING SUCCESS
Two reasons come immediately to mind. There is always the assumed expectation of others. Appearance is always extremely important. When in doubt, dress up not down. You can never go wrong. Equally important, to be a successful real estate investor requires a good deal of confidence. When you look good, you feel good. We are what we think. It does make a difference. When you show up dressed appropriately, you gain credibility. The way others view you can put them at ease, you likely gain a measure of trust from the outset, and they more easily recognize that you are someone who can do what you say you can do.
Always strive to make that great first impression. Dress for success.
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