Does looking young pose an advantage or disadvantage?
Every time age is talked about in the workplace, I always get the same reactions, “No way you are that old,” “You’re joking!,” or “What do you Filipinos eat that doesn’t make you age?”
Those reactions are flattering in a way. But when it comes to the workplace, youthfulness does not always get all the advantages. Some people associate youthful looks with inexperience or lack of credibility. I personally received unfavorable responses in my previous jobs when it comes to looking younger than my age.
Over the years, I’ve learned how to carry myself appropriately which will reverse the age discussion in my favor.
Here are some of them:
Dress your age
No, you don’t need to wear formal clothes to look more mature. You don’t need to change your style. Just dress smart to fit your age and style, and to align with the role that you do.
Keep a good body language
Your posture when sitting, standing and even walking, and your hand gestures tell so much about you. People perceive us based on our body language. So practice standing up straight, chin up, and shoulders back. They can help you look more confident and mature. Avoid slouching.
Develop a good speaking voice
One thing I learned is that I can change my voice. I used to have a monotonous pitchy tone. When I talk I use a lot of fillers – you know, the ah, oh, uhm, etc. That way of speaking did me more harm than good. So I made an effort to remove that habit. I observed people who I look up to and committed to changing my tone of voice. So aim to develop a pleasant, relaxed, and strong speaking voice. Having a solid voice can invalidate those “you look too young” comments.
Talk with sense
Don’t keep nodding and saying yes to everything. It would be better to speak up your thoughts when necessary. Hearing you talk can elevate people’s impression of you. But don’t just talk for the sake of talking. Talk with meaning.
While perceptions are unavoidable, at the end of the day, EMBRACE YOUR YOUTHFULNESS.
Take it as a blessing and not a curse.
Keep in mind, there are several advantages of being young too – the energy we bring, the enthusiasm, the fresh ideas, different perspectives, being advanced with tech stuff, and more.
I wouldn’t trade looking young for looking older.
Just remember, you don’t have to pretend, you just need to present yourself better.
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