A closer look at the physical appearance of in-house counsel

All of us form quick impressions, as well as many lasting impressions, based on someone’s appearance (See my posts of Nov. 9, 2006: advantages of height; Feb. 1, 2007 #2: height and intelligence; and April 7, 2006: looks and height.). Much discrimination is based on inherited physical characteristics (See my post of Sept. 4, 2006: minority counsel compared to diverse counsel.) and life is littered with prejudices (See my post of March 17, 2006: gay and lesbian lawyers.).

Whomped with the ugly stick some in-house lawyers may be (See my post of Jan. 8, 2008: homely looks of corporate counsel.), but there’s more to appearance on this blog than meets the eye. Appearances are nothing to dismiss in this youthfulness-worshipping botox culture (See my post of Jan. 25, 2008: smile your way to financial success.). Dress codes testify to the potency of appearance (See my post of Oct. 22, 2005: my iron-clad rule on dress codes.) and people even notice handedness (See my post of March 12, 2006: left-handed lawyers.).

Sometime I will write about prejudice against over-weight lawyers. Better to work out diligently at the corporate fitness center (See my posts of April 16, 2007 on corporate health centers; and Feb. 25, 2008: exercise jogs the brain.). Otherwise, keep an eye on the mirror.