How do I make myself look older so that my clients take me seriously?

Question

I am 26 and I'm a social worker. I know that I look really young, everyone tells me it all the time and I see it when I look in the mirror. My sister is 19 and people always ask who is older. I know this may seem like a strange question, and I'm not complaining really..its just that when it come to work it handicaps me. Some of my client don't take me seriously because I look so young. Many of them say, "are you old enough to do this job?" or "you look younger then may daughter" or "Oh your a social worker? How old are you? Oh I thought you were much younger" I don't wear makeup, but I do dress professionally. What tricks can I use to make myself appear more distinguished and professional? it makes me uncomfortable to be seen as a child at work and I believe it inteferes with my work, I think many people don't take me seriously.

Answer 1

honestly, i think it might just be the way you present yourself. not just your physical appearance, but how you assert yourself. if you're quiet and uncomfortable with being seen as younger than you are, it probably shows. be more assertive and informed. if you know what you are doing, do it well. people will take you seriously when you are involved and assertive because it projects a level of maturity beyond that of your looks. you could try some makeup like eyeliner, mascara, and or blush, but i think you should just work on the way you carry yourself. project confidence, and stay on top of things. when people see how well you can handle the job, they should take you more seriously. you should be able to laugh off these comments knowing that you ARE old enough and are able enough to be doing the job that you are doing.

Answer 2

You might want to consider wearing a small amount of makeup. Women who don't wear makeup and still look young look that much younger because they're not wearing makeup. Kind of like "if she's not wearing makeup and she looks 21, she's gotta be 21." Accessorize a bit more; try scarves around your neck or heavier bracelets which tend to be more in line with an older woman's look. Pull your hair back or (I know this will sound lame) try the topsy tail to make more formal hair styles. I have one and I adore it! Choose lower heels and closed toe shoes.

Social workers are often put in the middle of unhappy situations so you have to be able to project an air of authority. Otherwise you might not be able to control every situation that comes along. I'd recommend talking to a co-worker and getting some pointers. You might think you are more professionally outfitted than you really are--- even something as minor as too many earrings might project a younger image.

Answer 3

-- Shorter hair on girls usaually makes them look older. This might not work for all girls though.
-- Dont use slang or jibberish language.
-- Don't bite your nails. Lose the nervous habit and invest in a manicure, pedicure and some polish.
-- Take care of yourself. Wash regularly, use deodorant, and try and do your makeup as often as possible.
-- Fix your eyebrows. Some surveys say that when your eyebrows are done and put together, you can look more mature and therefore, look older.
-- a pair of high-heels is a must. If you don't like high heels, go with wedge heels, unless you're really short.
-- Don't overdo the make up; don't be mistaken as a hooker!
-- maybe you could try a hair style that older women wear, such as a bun. [a real bun, like in a ball]


some good stores to shop at are
gap
forever21
nordstrom
express
New york & company

Answer 4

I know how you feel, I started in business looking young. All I can say for sure is it doesn't last long!!!! Try hitting the salon, ask for a business like do, that you can still have fun with during your days off. Also, clothing and shoes make a big difference. If you look like your 19 year old sister when you're dressed for work, that's no good. Not saying you have to dress like an old lady either of course, but maybe explore some new stores. More make up won't do it, you'll just look like a young girl wearing alot of makeup. Watch the way you carry yourself, how's your posture, do you look sure of yourself? Try for a classic look with your fingernail polish if you wear it.......short length nails with french manicure or creamy colors. No crazy high shoes or boots either.......save the sexy footwear for the weekends. Hope that helps a little!! Cheers!!

Answer 5

For to look older well matured especially in a social worker field, and when you deal with mom's with children, you are in a filld with alot of unapproved disadvantages!
Look how the older women clothing style are, and their makeup, put a little gray in your hair for highlights! Talk with professional language, not today's lingo of short english or up to date "I'm bad" or young people type language!
Do some research on your clients values, their style, way of life before you start interfering people lives, that is why people does not take you seriously.

Answer 6

Chica, I've definitely been in those shoes. I look much younger than my age (I'm 44 now) and look about 10 years younger. It's nice now, but when I was in my 20s in a professional position, it really caused problems.

Most of the other responses have good suggestions. But here's some things I found helped.

Start reviewing fashion magazines and find clothing that makes you look slightly older.

Secondly, go to your favorite stylist and ask them for advice on an "older" haircut. It really can help you look more mature for your age.

Finally, observe how others your age behave. Try to emulate their opinions.

Answer 7

wear suits with pumps and wear your hair back

Answer 8

just wait.