The way you present yourself has incredible weight when it comes to getting cooperation that you need, and dressing for success is an important part of that.
Without even realizing it, people treat people based on the way they look. Imagine walking down the street and walking towards you is a man wearing dress pants, a nice button down shirt, and are well groomed. As the gentleman approaches you, he pauses and say, “Excuse me, but do you happen to have a quarter for the meter?”
There’s a good chance you’ll pause and search your pockets. Maybe if you have a quarter you don’t give it to the man, but at least you give him the courtesy to say, “I’m sorry, but I don’t.”
Now imagine the same instance, only this time it is a construction worker. He’s wearing a pair of dirty jeans, a few layers of shirts, and looks a little grungy. You mistake the person for a bum and as they ask for change, you just keep walking without any hesitation or response.
I’ve has a similar experience when I needed to return an item where I needed the cooperation of the sales associate. On first attempt, I attempt to make my return while wearing a pair of jeans and a sweatshirt. I’m unsuccessful and aggravated, but I try again on a later date and talk to the same exact sales associate. This time I’m wearing a business casual outfit and have no trouble getting the help I need.
The first time I stopped by my bank to ask some basic questions about opening a business account I was on my way back from the gym and wearing a workout outfit. I was just collecting information at the time, so I didn’t think twice about my attire. I had no problem collecting the information, but I had to ask a lot of questions and I was certainly not being catered to.
A week later I returned and spoke to the same banker, but this time I was wearing a shirt and tie. It was amazing how much the banker welcomed me into his office, asked me questions about my business, what my goals and needs were, and how they could help me be successful. I couldn’t believe I was speaking to the same person. This was a completely different experience.
The point is that when you look and act important, you’re more likely to get treated preferential treatment. While you can certainly be successful by wearing jeans and t-shirts, there are instances that it pays to dress for success.
