According to a Harvard Business Review study, job applicants’ physical appearance and accessories can affect the hiring outcomes of candidates. The research found that simple factors like wearing a suit and tie, glasses, and even having a beard can impact whether or not an applicant gets hired, as job seekers who “look the part” are more likely to land the role. This is because people tend to attribute more positive qualities to attractive individuals, according to experts.
This doesn’t stop at just the interview stage. Projecting a positive image is crucial in any professional setup, as it helps establish a good first impression. This is especially true for people who engage in public relations because your branding can influence how others perceive your credibility. Luckily, simple yet effective practices like wearing tailored suits or simple button-downs and preparing an effective speech can help you look sharp when working with your clients and other stakeholders. Wearing glasses, in particular, can actually help you look more professional.
The psychology behind glasses and proper styling
Research shows that people perceive their glasses-wearing peers as individuals with a higher level of intellect. Wearing glasses can also add a touch of sophistication to your workplace outfits, which is especially important for PR professionals. According to stylist Dana Asher Levine, being well-dressed in a professional setting can help you look confident and capable. Maintaining these consistent dress standards can help PR professionals convey a professional brand image to clients and the general public. Glasses can help you achieve that, which can make them a useful addition to your looks.
There are several types of glasses available that can help enhance professional branding. The timeless silhouettes of Ray-Ban eyeglasses are viable options because of their sophisticated designs, including the Clubmaster Optics, which carries the iconic browline style that became popular in the 1950s. Meanwhile, the Aviator Optics – which comes in nine customizable colors – features the classic teardrop shape first introduced in the 1930s and comes in lightweight metal frames that are perfect for professional settings. Sporting these glasses can help improve charisma, as studies show that wearing specs is now viewed as “functional and trendy.” Research also shows that people wear glasses to appear more “businesslike,” highlighting the appeal of eyeglasses in the professional setting. Here are some other professional-looking eyewear options:
Glasses options
Opting for rectangular frames is a good choice for PR professionals as these glasses are versatile and can complement various clothing choices, from casual to corporate. They also create the perfect balance between simple and stylish, with semi-rimless frames like the Emporio Armani EA1041-55 helping wearers exude a clean, polished look that’s perfect for corporate settings. Alternatively, you can also opt for tortoiseshell frames for a splash of color.
If you’re looking for frames that strike the perfect balance between subtle and stylish, metal glasses like the Levi’s LV1008 are a good option. Metal frames provide a distinctively sleek look that works best in a professional setting since these frames are subtle and almost unnoticeable. While metal glasses are relatively simple, they are anything but boring, as they provide wearers more freedom to play around with their wardrobe choices. If you’re gunning for a cleaner, more minimalist aesthetic, you can opt for clear acetate frames that are versatile and can be paired with any color. The Oakley Trillbe X and Michael Kors MK4067U are viable options for PR professionals with a penchant for subtle elegance, helping wearers look effortlessly polished.
Glasses help you look more refined by adding a stylistic touch to your outfits. Choosing the best frames that suit a professional setting is key to making a good first impression.
