Make More Money: Get a Makeover

(MoneyWatch) 

Debrahlee Lorenzana, the "too hot" banker, apparently was not familiar with the old adage about too much of a good thing, and her plastic-surgery enhanced good looks cost her a job at Citigroup. But for the rest of us, the right nips and tucks just might translate into promotions and better pay.

A growing, albeit disturbing, body of research suggests that frivolous attributes can lead to serious consequences for salary and career. So if you don't feel like working hard in the office this week, just transform yourself into a tall, blonde, handsome, southpaw male who likes to drink and go to religious services. And soon you'll have the keys to the corner office.

Here are seven ways to make more money:

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Get a Makeover

Photo: Carrie Schechter

“Attractive men and women are often seen as more talented, kind, and intelligent and that can lead to promotions and raises,” says Gordon Patzer, author of Looks: Why They Matter More Than You Ever Imagined. Unattractive men, meanwhile, earned 15 percent less than their attractive coworkers in a London Guildhall University survey of 33-year-olds. Unattractive women earned 11 percent less.

In a recent story, Newsweek offered more evidence that the “beauty premium” really does exist, finding that 13 percent of women and 10 percent of men would consider plastic surgery if it could boost their success at work. Those breast implants seem to have backfired for Lorenzana (above). But Patzer says a haircut and a wardrobe update can work wonders.

• Up Next: Walk Taller

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