Into a working woman’s world, this week Misha Paul checks out how smart looks and a smarter attitude help women at work

She wore black thick framed glasses on her nearly squashed pink tinged nose. She was fair but had freckles to hide her skin tone under their weight. She was five feet, weighed 86 kilos and had a broad stature, but no body seemed to notice her. She had numerous qualifications against her name but no one wanted to rope her in. She couldn’t understand why, but do you?

She was intelligent and had an IQ which could give the smartest man a run for his money but her mea culpa was that she preferred spending her time honing her skills on the study table instead of polishing herself in front of the mirror. Who would want to be treated as a sophomore pariah in her my-kind-of-job situation to a pretty looking dumb head? So, many go on a spending spree rejiging their wardrobe and themselves while other start saving for the osteopaths. Some even go under the knife to look more presentable in pursuit of a white-collar job. So, are good looks so important for a woman at work place?

Amita Phadnis, an IT professional feels that though good looks pay a huge role but that’s not the only thing you need. “If you have paired your goggles with million dollar shoes but have rocks in your head, you won’t go far. I am in this field since the last four years and have achieved a lot. But that’s all because of my hard work. Undoubtedly, in the beginning pretty girls caught eye balls but now the ‘ball’ is in my court. Pair decent looks with great sociable skills, a benevolent work experience and normal IQ to spill magic,” she smiles.

They say first impression is the last impression and if you do not have a decent appearance then, that first impression does blunders. But, if you think sparkling pink lipstick, thick mascara, a short checked skirt and breathtaking looks can give you success in a job then think again. “There’s more to an attractive personality than just a pretty face. Be confident and have a decent outfit and everything else will fall in place, because when you are exceptionally outstanding, nothing else matters. And if you are not, work towards balancing both—looks and smartness,” says stylist Prerna Dixit.

Dr Susan Zakaria, psychiatrist agrees, “Attractiveness is important for the first good impression. People tend to couple attractiveness to other positive qualities at a sub-conscious level. But beyond that it doesn’t do anything else. Also, dressing up for a business meeting is nothing like dressing up for a party. So, there is a tricky balance between being dressed well and being over dressed. If you are flashy, it will put a negative impact and take the formal, serious feel.” So, all the ladies out there with great looks, glam dresses and 0 brains applying for jobs think again. Add a tinge of presentable looks to a bowlful of intelligence and etiquettes and you will get the recipe for the perfect first impression!

Misha Paul/ DNA-Daily News & Analysis Source: 3D Syndication