How to ‘Dress to Impress’ as an Estate Agent

May 25, 2020
Copyright John Galfano

I was debating whether to in fact name this article ‘How not to dress like the typical Estate Agent‘ as many people will, I am sure agree, that we can usually spot the typical estate agent walking about in town (yes, those days when walking around town freely was allowed and norm prior COVID-19)!

Many men that work in estate agency, and certainly those younger ones, would have that estate agent look about them, the standard suit, the white shirt and standard tie, the cheaper plastic sole shoes and maybe that flashy hair style. From entering many estate agencies over the years and working alongside them I would say that ladies would have a much more varied selection of fashion in order to look both professional and as best as they can, current in fashion trends as an estate agent. I know the guys will be saying that “hey, we’ve only really suits to rely on here“, but nonetheless there is a way to look neat and tidy as well as trendy and current in fashion.

Estate Agents should not all look the same

Estate Agents should try to not all look the same!

 

I’m not fashion guru, I’ll stick to Champagne and sparkling wines which is vast enough thanks, so I thought I would get the feedback from a top ‘expert’ in this area and someone who I have been following for a while now and taking many tips from. We of course all want to look good, to appear at our best, though sometimes we just need that helping hand…

Ideas for Spring time fashion by ‘40 Over Fashion‘ Youtube Channel

 

If you are browsing fashion ideas and how to present yourself to look good via YouTube, especially for those of us who are middle aged, then it is highly likely you will have come across a video from John Galfano. With a fast growing channel and countless videos done already covering many relevant topics, John’s business 40 Over Fashion, is one of the most popular reference points for those of us looking to improve our appearance.

“I feel that most guys want to dress better, but they don’t know how, so they fail to try or participate at all. Like it or not, we’re all judged on first impressions. Make sure your first impression is a good one.” John Galfano

 

I put the question to John – “How can guys make themselves more successful in business by how they dress?“

Here is John’s reply:

Hi Christopher,
Thanks for reaching out!
“I believe there’s a balance in how you present yourself based on the demographic that you’re serving. For example, if you’re selling high-end commercial properties, I might assume a more elevated dress code that if you were involved in moderate residential real estate.
Years ago when I ran a commercial photo studio, clients would find me online and come to my studio. I had to put myself in their shoes and ask myself what it must be like walking into the studio of someone they’ve never met. For example, I used to photograph head-shots for authors, actors and real estate agents, many of which were female. It was always very important to me that I made them feel as comfortable as possible right from the start. If they walked into my studio and my appearance looked sloppy, what message would I be sending? I may be the most talented photographer on the planet, but if I looked like I didn’t care about myself, how could I expect them to feel comfortable and also provide reassurance that they made the right decision in hiring me?
Think of it another way.. If you need to have your home furnace repaired and you hire a repairman. Guy #1 shows up in a beat-up vehicle with torn, dirty clothes, a messy appearance and a old tool belt. Guy #2 shows up in a clean vehicle wearing a uniform and spreads out a bunch of professional-looking diagnostic equipment. Which guy would you feel more comfortable working on your furnace? Maybe Guy #1 has more experience and all it takes is a screwdriver to fix it, but the more professional guy projects a level of confidence and comfort. He may also be able to command a higher price for his service with perceived value, even if he never uses his fancy equipment.
You also have to consider the demographic you’re serving and not go overboard. You still want to be relatable and not dress so well that you project arrogance. Clients and customers still need to relate to you and see themselves in you, but also recognise your confidence, professionalism and success. Pay close attention to not only what you wear, but how those pieces fit your body type.
I hope that was helpful Christopher! Thanks again for allowing me to put some of my thoughts into this email. Be well!“

Christopher Walkey

Founder of Estate Agent Networking. Internationally invited speaker on how to build online target audiences using Social Media. Writes about UK property prices, housing, politics and affordable homes.

You May Also Enjoy

Breaking News

Tenancy Preferences Shift Amid Economic Uncertainty: Stability Gains Appeal

In the face of ongoing economic challenges, both tenants and landlords are reassessing their approaches to rental agreements. The latest Lettings Report from Leaders Romans Group (LRG) indicates a growing preference for longer-term tenancies, as both parties seek greater security in an unpredictable market. The report reveals that 44% of tenants and an equal percentage…
Read More →
Letting Agent Talk

Why Post-Tenancy Cleaning is Key to Protecting Your Property and Attracting New Tenants

When a tenant moves out, the state of the property can have a lasting impact on future lettings and the overall reputation of landlords or letting agencies. Proper cleaning after tenants leave isn’t just essential for hygiene and aesthetics but also plays a significant role in compliance, tenant satisfaction, and property longevity. Here’s why post-tenancy…
Read More →
Breaking News

Landlord Licensing Plan a Costly Waste of Time and Money

Responding to government plans to make it easier for councils to introduce landlord licensing schemes, Chris Norris, Policy Director for the National Residential Landlords Association, said: “It makes no sense that whilst planning to create a national database of private landlords, the Government now wants to make it easier for councils to license landlords as…
Read More →
Home and Living

The psychology of color in home office design

One of the most impactful elements of the workspace is the color palette. The right colours can inspire, motivate, and help you focus. Get to know how different colours can affect your productivity: ·blue – often associated with calm and focus, blue is a popular choice for home offices. It helps to reduce stress and…
Read More →
Letting Agent Talk

Leasehold Reform: ALEP’s Predictions for 2025

Mark Chick, director of ALEP (Association of Leasehold Enfranchisement Practitioners) and a Partner at Bishop & Sewell LLP comments:  2024 has come to a close with some very welcome clarity from the government on leasehold reform. An end to uncertainty? At ALEP’s annual conference in October, the overwhelming sentiment was one of uncertainty – uncertainty…
Read More →
Social Housing 2019
Estate Agent Talk

2025 Predictions for the housebuilding sector

Tim Foreman, Managing Director of Land and New Homes, Leaders Romans Group (LRG): Uncertainty was the theme of 2024, thanks to the general election, a ‘painful’ Budget and a slower than expected reduction in interest rates. But from a market point of view, uncertainty resulting in a slow-down has the advantage of creating pent-up demand…
Read More →