Even today, looks irrespective of whether it is a man or a woman does matter. Perhaps in the case of women it is more evident, while for men it is relatively more subtle. But given a choice, between hiring somebody—both tied qualification wise, the better looking candidate gets preference. True, if the qualifications and skill judgment scale lean towards the candidate who is comparatively not that “great” to look at then, the choice is not influenced by looks.
“It's been a debate for ages - if you aren't pretty, your chances of personal and professional success are doomed… “I suddenly came across these lines, while browsing some site. The answer is simply enough, unfortunate but yes that is very much true. But question is why?
The importance of looks professionally, can be more clearly understood by the various ads for fairness creams. Targeted at the Indian masses in general, the “miracle” that fairness works is the main message generated. Using a fairness cream, suddenly a person who has been searching fruitlessly for a job or a chance to feature in a movie gets that “once in a lifetime” opportunity. Interestingly, more number of men are also becoming conscious of fairness products (The likes of ‘Fair and Handsome’)
Globally, the importance of looks is the same. An US study has revealed that candidates who “look” good are likely to receive a higher pay package. For men, height does matter, with approx $600 more per inch.
Surveys conducted by various sources have revealed that looks are one of the top parameters for judgment. Whether you are being tried in court; or something as regular as performing in school; looks play an important part in every aspect of life. Another study has revealed that women are often conscious about their looks than men. Question is why? A possible explanation is perhaps women are more likely to be judged on appearances than men. When it comes to the definition of “beauty” the “rules” for women are often more rigid!
