How to ‘Dress to Impress’ as an Estate Agent

May 25, 2020

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 and an internationally invited speaker on how to build online target audiences using Twitter and LinkedIn. Writes about UK property prices, housing and affordable homes.