Getting a job as a real estate agent can be a rewarding experience for many professionals. However, it's important to understand how appearance can impact your ability to land sales. The following guide provides effective dress tips for both male and female real estate agents.
It's a good idea for real estate agents to make sure they maintain a professional appearance whenever they are showing homes. However, a professional appearance doesn't always mean a suit and tie; there are a variety of great choices that will work for men.
Dressing for Success: Men
Men should avoid all facial hair and sideburns, if possible. While there's nothing inherently wrong with having facial hair, a beard or mustache often detracts from a professional, clean appearance. Hair should be kept short and neat. However, buzz cuts and shaved heads are usually a poor look for male real estate agents. Hair should be maintained at a length of one to three inches.
For casual events, khaki pants and a golf shirt are appropriate attire. It's important to make sure that your outfit is uniform, however. Your shoes and belt should be the same color. While khaki shorts may be appropriate in some environments, it can often be difficult to find appropriate footwear to go with shorts. Because of this, longer pants are usually recommended.
For formal events, a suit is a good choice. While a tie can add to an outfit in some situations, it's important to be aware of your environment when choosing what to wear. While a tie may add to a professional appearance in some circles, others may perceive it as stilted or stifling.
For example, many Silicon Valley employees on the West Coast of the U.S. have a negative perception of formal suits. Many CEOs and executives at technology companies wear casual, clean outfits to work. If you're showing a home in an area that eschews these values, it's a good idea to make sure your outfit isn't too formal. Overdressing can be just as harmful as underdressing.
Dressing for Success: Women
Business attire is usually a good choice for female real estate agents. Business pants and a sports jacket often yield a clean, powerful appearance. A conservative dress can also be a good choice.
When wearing a dress, there's no harm in showing a little bit of skin. However, it's important to make sure that a dress is able to show off your body is a stylish, classy way. Excessive cleavage and mini-skirts can make it more challenging to negotiate prices.
