How Do I Look?

We form our opinion of someone in the first few seconds of meeting them. One glance and based on how they look, what they're wearing, posture and other clues, we're working out their occupation, social background, education, status and any number of other views, opinions about who they are and what they do. It's called stereotyping and although it's not an exact science and while everyone is unique we'd probably guess quite a bit about the person and be right.

We're meeting people all the time from different professions - how often do they conform to the social norm. If you walked into a room full of strangers could you pick out the accountant, the bank manager, the web designer, the PR person? If the Bank Manager turned up in jeans, T-shirt and trainers - what would you think?

How much does appearance affect the way you relate to a person, their skills and abilities to do their job? If you were interviewing for a job - how much would appearance and personality influence your decision?

There's a whole industry built around branding and image, so how we look and present ourselves is important - particularly in the business environment where there seems to be even more of a requirement to conform. In some companies - they even have/had a dress code - dark suits, white shirts and tie. The introduction of business casual has made things more relaxed from the more formal business attire of suit and tie.

Do you dress to reflect your profession or who you are? Have you ever felt discriminated against or singled out because of your appearance?

If you're out for a meeting or sitting having a coffee in the next week - take a look at the people around you and see if you can work out who they are and what they do.