This article explains why male attorneys often need an extreme makeover. It also tells you how such a makeover can improve your professional image.
ATTORNEY IMAGE
Male attorneys almost never consider a male makeover or an extreme makeover. This is because men usually think a makeover is only for women. Unfortunately, this common misunderstanding means that most male attorneys are avoiding something that can provide significant advantages for their career.
An extreme makeover is not solely the province of females. Men can use makeovers too, even though the word has feminine connotations. In fact, the most powerful and influential men are the ones getting help from image consultants. For example, the president of the United States, top Hollywood actors, and successful politicians all get makeovers and use image consultants. Why deny yourself the advantages these individuals enjoy?
The first step for a male attorney is getting over his aversion to the word "makeover." Don't let a mere word frighten you off! If you consider that James Bond had a makeover in Thunderball, and that Muhammad Ali used to receive makeovers from his trainer, it might help you appreciate the fact that using an image consultant is actually something the alpha male does even more than his underlings.
MAKEOVER SECRETS FOR MEN
An extreme makeover will begin by disabusing you of the mistaken belief that you can get a good haircut in a unisex salon or mall. Only a barber can give you the kind of haircut you need. A trained barber knows how to cut the hair around your ears. He'll also shave your neck. Remember, your hair is the first thing people notice, so a good haircut is essential. An experienced image consultant always has a barber he can recommend, and the funny thing is you'll probably pay the barber less than the person who's cutting your hair now.
If your image consultant is giving you evidence-based advice, that is, advice derived from testing what works in a legal setting, then your makeover will also help you select appropriate suits. You will want to match your tie to your suit, and, in addition, you'll want to select ties that convey the right message. To a meeting with a blue-collar worker, for example, you'll be advised to wear a rep tie. To a motion session before a judge who graduated from an ivy league school, you'll be advised to wear a polka dot or solid tie, and to avoid the rep like the plague.
Your footwear should consist of wingtips or cap toe shoes, nothing else. These inside secrets, known to a handful of top image consultants, will make your extreme makeover an empowering experience. You will emerge feeling that you have inside style secrets that can help you with clients, colleagues, and judges. And the fact of the matter is, you really will.
