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Does the way a professional dresses matter?

By
Real Estate Agent with Exit Realty Tri-County

Florida has very interesting business attire.  I see many agents and have been guilty myself of doing business in flip plops and a T-Shirt.  When ever I become relaxed in the way I present myself I feel my professionalism decline.  However, when I put on my business suit or more professional attire I find myself more confident and ready to tackle what ever task is at hand. 

Can it be that our own appearance not only influences those who we are around, but also how we feel about our own being.  If you are a consumer and you walked into a room of professionals whether they be Realtors or perhaps insurance agents, who are you going to gravitate towards? And, if like attracts like then perhaps the way we dress will bring us the people we really want to associate ourselves with. I don't have a problem with dressing casual, but I think it should be saved for leisure activities.

Now I know that a three piece suit is not practical in July. A Nice polo and khakis can be very impressive with some nice shoes , or a linen skirt and a short sleeve button up shirt paired with sandles can have the same affect.  Its putting our best foot forward so that we get taken seriously. 

I personally strive to not consider the another persons appearance.  I know looks can be deceiving, but I would be lying if I said I don't lien towards the better dressed people.  I don't follow trends or name brands.  I do pay attention to a persons choice of clothing when they say they are at work.  Everyone has their own way and it should be like that.  Everyone has their own nitch and customers who are comfortable with them. I am just wondering who feels like I do.

Leigh Brown
Leigh Brown & Associates, RE/MAX Executive - Charlotte, NC
CEO, Dream Maker - Charlotte, NC
there are several great blog conversations on this topic that you might enjoy reading (just do a search for clothing or appearance).  i think it just depends on what market you're in and who your niche is.  if i wore a suit to show raw land, i'd be laughed at-i have to have on my boots and jeans so i can walk the corners and ignore the hitchhikers. =)  but when showing in the million-up category, darn skippy i dress to the nines.
Nov 28, 2006 12:43 PM
Eric Bouler
Gardner Realtors, Licensed in La. - New Orleans, LA
Listening to your Needs
How you dress does influence others. Try to dress like we say business casual. Most of the clients I show are dressed this way. On the weekends they will wear jeans. I never wear jeans, but casual slacks, company shirt as I call it, and leather shoes. I never wear a suit and rarely wear a tie anymore.
Nov 28, 2006 01:17 PM
Jason Price
Mortgage Financial Group, Inc (NMLS 219650) - Tavares, FL
The Mortgage Rider

A professional should know their clients.  As Leigh described, she dresses based on the showing.  She knows what her clients expects her to wear.  As for an office setting, there should be an office policy that is best suited for its general client base.  For example, if you typically cater to high-end properties, perhaps a jacket and tie, or suit may be required (in your case I doubt you would wear a jacket and tie.) :)  But if it is the average home buyer buying the average house, perhaps a polo and dress slacks are best.  It is about knowing what will make your clients feel comfortable in doing business with you.  If you are dressed to meet your clients expectations then you will feel more professional than as you put it "wearing the business suit."  Just my opinion.

Nov 28, 2006 02:23 PM
Joanne Brown
Rockland County Real Estate - Nanuet, NY

It definitely matters.  Even if your clients are dressed down, they don't expect you to dress like they do.  I was at a new construction site with clients, as were other agents with their own clients and people drove up got out of the car and walked up to the best dressed agent looking for information.

People gravitate toward the better dressed person, they think they know more.

Nov 29, 2006 05:22 AM
Doug Beaver
Century 21 Olde Tyme - Corona, CA
Corona Norco Eastvale Riverside Homes

We are in sales, You must dress the your clients expect you to. If all your clients are manhattan executives and I meet them 9-5 During the business week then suit and tie. On the Week ends on the golf course then well you get the drift. But above all never blue jeans cut off's etc. unless we are selling Real Estate on Gilligans Island.

Just my 2 cents....

Nov 30, 2006 05:06 AM
Monika McGillicuddy
Prudential Verani Realty - Atkinson, NH
NH Real Estate Broker

I always say dress for your market place...I'd love to work in Hawaii

Monika 

Dec 02, 2006 12:56 PM