Are gotee's bad for sales jobs?

Question

I have been in sales for 4 years at the same job and some other sales rep's say that they are bad for sales? Is this true? Does it make you look shady? Old-time sales reps say they are, but we are in a new era.

Answer 1

Goatee is the most appropriate beard out there, perhaps why they are so popular, and they seem to be enjoying a break from "beard" stereotypes. Keep it tidy and trimmed so it doesn't get out of hand. You should be fine as long as you don't push any other limits with things like tats and piercings.

If you are in the same job with reputable customers you should have a rapport with them regardless of how you look. If you are floundering or looking to expand your base, maybe you should try a more conservative dress code or haircut...the thing about facial hair is that it does help you with a grownup look. No one wants to hear about a product, or spend their money with, someone who looks like a child.

Other areas where you are making an impression? Your work area. Your desk, briefcase, and car should be immaculate, organized, and stylish. Be on time. Brush up on your handshake and your manners.

And of course, regardless of how you or your things look, make sure you are on top of your products, your presentation, and doing your footwork to drum up business.

Answer 2

I shaved my gotee and my monthly sales figures shot up by 70%. Maybe it was just coincidence. The store manager said it was because I no longer looked like a '90s throwback and customers found it easier to trust me.

Answer 3

Goatee's are bad for everyone except Shaggy from Scooby Doo and I am assuming you aren't selling Scooby Snacks.

Goatees represent laziness in a way. Hey it's less that I have to shave in the morning - right? I always equate goatee's with those late 20's/early 30's guys that are gaining forehead while making up for it in the chin and upper lip.

Bypass the Men's Wearhouse, consult a barber and like Andrew Dice Clay might say:

"Barry, Larry, quite contrary - Shave that chin it's so damn ....... RETARDED!!!!"

Answer 4

I think it depends on the product that you are selling. If you are dealing with high end product, look at your customers. They may be a little wary of it.

My general philosophy is this, don't dress to mimic the customer, dress to make the customer comfortable while being comfortable yourself. For example, when I sold high end printing presses, the guys all wore jeans and tshirts. I dressed in biz casual with my hair up. I wouldn't have come in wearing jeans, because I am not on the press, so it wasn't justified.

Hope I actually explained myself.

Answer 5

The look of a sales person has nothing to do (to a certain extent of course) with my decision to buy a certain product or not. Its all in the way you address your customers and and how persuasive you can be I think.

Answer 6

I think you're right - it depends on your audience. Try shaving it and see if your sales pick up - then you'll know.
If it doesn't make any difference, or if your sales slide, grow it back.

Answer 7

.
Look at it this way: you want to sell stuff, so you want to do everything in your power to make and keep making a positive impression on your customers and prospects. Anything you do, say, or look like can and will be held against you, and you'll never know it; all you'll know is that you didn't get the order.

If you know your stuff and present yourself professionally, why take a chance? Shave that thing!

Unless you're selling magician's supplies...
.

Answer 8

I wouldnt think so as long as there nicely trimed. I love gotees on guys.

Answer 9

It depends on the job and clientele.
Works with:
Younger leads, women, and your peers

Does not work with:
Older leads, older women, and stuffy, "sophisticated" clientele (i.e. the rich)

Answer 10

Depends on your clients and what you're selling, really. To older people, they tend to see them as slick and oily, not trust worthy. People of our generation tend to not care either way.