Video Mystery Shopping: The Dog Days of Summer – and what NOT to wear!

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I was watching a video shop recently that was recorded in August in Florida. Now, for all you Floridians out there….you KNOW the weather in August in Florida is BRUTAL. The heat alone is enough to make you pass out, and add to that the humidity and afternoon rains showers….no one has a ‘good hair day’ for the entire month!

Anyway, I digress. In this particular video, the sales associate was very informative and knowledgeable. She was handling objections like a pro, telling the builder’s story and using trial closes; however, I could barely focus on what she was saying because I was too distracted by what she was wearing!

The sales associate, who happened to be a woman in her mid-30’s, was dressed more like she was ready to go clubbing rather than conduct a new home sales presentation.  While her silver sequined halter top, skin-tight black micro-mini skirt, and 5 inch stiletto’s certainly accentuated her physique, it was TOTALLY inappropriate for the workplace.

This is by no means the first time I have witnessed new home sales professionals dressing in a less than professional manner. It happens more than you think, and men are just as guilty of committing a fashion faux pas as women are. In fact, oftentimes men are worse offenders than the ladies. There is nothing flattering (or professional) about a man in a rumpled, wrinkled and ransacked pair of khakis and button down shirt!

So, ladies and gentlemen, please heed my advice and pay close attention to what you are wearing in your sales offices. Like it or not, you will be judged and scrutinized by your outfits.  Here are some simple tips:

1. Do not show too much skin! If you have a sleeveless shirt or dress, be sure to have a sweater or jacket to wear with customers and prospects.
2. Make sure clothes are clean and laundered.
3. Wear clothes that FIT. If you have gained or lost more than 10 lbs, PLEASE make wardrobe adjustments immediately.
4. Less is ‘More’ when it comes to jewelry and make-up.
5. Invest in good shoes.
6. Dress in a manner in which your mother would be proud.

Remember, you are not trying to win a beauty contest; you are trying to sell a home. Focus the attention on your beautiful models, your spacious home sites, and your fantastic amenities….not yourself. And please, leave the silver sequined halter top in the closet until Friday night.