Comments on: Accessorizing for your next negotiation: should appearance matter?

By: Diane Levin

Diane Levin — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 02:00:11 +0000

Whoa. (Good thing it wasn’t a real spider.)

Great story, Tammy. Thanks for sharing that one.

By: Tammy Lenski

Tammy Lenski — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 01:33:21 +0000

Hi there, Diane - I had a similar reaction to those links that you did…a certain discomfort, even while acknowledging some of the relevance.

But my reason for leaving a comment is that your post reminded me of a probate mediation I did a few years ago. One of the parties was a well-dressed, somewhat flamboyant woman who swept in after everyone else had arrived and was seated. So, naturally, all eyes turned to her. Which perhaps was the plan. But even I wasn’t prepared for what was revealed when she removed her mink coat: A bejeweled broach, maybe 5″ in diameter, perched on the front of her suit just below the shoulder. In the shape of a spider. The gasp in the room was audible enough that I think my own gasp wasn’t obvious. The message was clear: Spider woman has arrived.

Talk about accessorizing to send a message!

By: Tom Kosakowski

Tom Kosakowski — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 14:44:59 +0000

As an Ombudsperson, I share a sensitivity to the impact of a first appearance. However, since I work with on a large university campus, the visitors to my office vary widely in age, education, income, ethnicity, gender identity, etc. It would be impossible and disingenuous for me to attempt to mimic the attributes of the individuals with whom I interact. I find it more important to dress in a way that reflects that I am comfortable with myself, neutral in my outlook and serious about my work. My only “accessory” is a trustworthy pen. That being said, I do keep a jacket and tie handy for mediations, presentations and meetings with top administrators.