Good Looks That Pay

According to research good looking people tend to earn higher salaries in all career fields. The advantage seems to favor men more than women. Daniel Hamermesh an economics professor of the University of Texas states that aesthetically challenged people earn 5 to 10 percent less than average looking people who in turn earn 3 to 8 percent less than those that are considered good looking.

There are certain occupations where looks are more sought after such as customer service and fashion. It may also appear that employers want to have good looking people around.  On the other hand if unattractive people have a bad attitude about life that alone may turn off employers. 

Unattractive women are less likely to hold a full time job compared to attractive and average women. They are also more at risk of marrying men with less talent and men that are less successful in life.

Dr. Gordon Patzer who has been studying the subject matter for years states that we tend to judge good looking people as being more talented, honest and intelligent.

Although good looks can be an advantage in the work place that does not mean unattractive people are doomed. Some of the most successful business men in the world would not be considered attractive yet they have the highest salaries. Most of the smartest and most talented people I have met are not what people would consider eye candy.

We all have to use our strong points whether it is smarts, charm, good humor, personality or communication skills. We all have talents and good qualities that we can rely on to get us through the door and succeed in life. Good looks may not last forever so it is best to focus on more than one trait to market ourselves.

Good looking or not success and high salaries are available to those who work hard.