The Ugly Truth about consulting: Where looks matter

As consultants, we're told that skills, communication, and recommendations are the keys to success. But let's get real – there's another factor at play, one that's not always openly discussed. I'm talking about The Handsome Card.

Hey honey! You are so handsome! But look at that consultant guy. He looks rich! You only made it to Shutterstock stock images. I wonder if I could switch you with him, honey.

I learned this lesson firsthand when I landed a project management role at a major candy factory (yes, it's as sweet as it sounds). Despite having some gaps in my ERP knowledge, I was chosen over more qualified candidates. Coincidence? Maybe.

Fast forward two months, and my supervisor – a stunning woman in her late 30s – asked me out for a "just friends" dinner. Yeah, right. Over dinner, she confessed that my dashing good looks had won her over, along with what she perceived as my high intelligence. She even admitted to having trouble looking at me in the eyes during meetings because of how much she "loved" me. Awkward.

But here's the thing – being handsome can give you an edge in consulting, especially if you're single and ready to mingle. And it seems that being a potential sperm donor can be a major asset too. My supervisor had mentioned wanting to have children (she was in her late 30s with none), so I guess I fit the bill on multiple fronts.

Honey, I'm PREGNANT!

On the flip side, male recruiters seem to value a different set of criteria: communication skills, a "winner" attitude, and – you guessed it – good looks. It's all about projecting confidence and authority.

But what happens when you're not exactly a Greek god? I've been there too – 20 kg overweight and wondering if my skills would ever be enough to compensate for my, overweight appearance. In that mode, it's all about being friendly, approachable, and having the skills to back it up. Oh, and not being a "fuckface" doesn't hurt either.

"That's the way, a-ha a-ha, I like it!" KC and the Sunshine Band.

But here's the thing – in IT development, the average male consultant is often...well, let's just say they're not exactly setting the world on fire with their looks or personalities. They're often overweight, unclean, and poorly groomed, with weird drawbacks like an unhealthy obsession with anime or manga. Add bad communication skills and an asshole attitude to the mix, and you've got a recipe for a single life.

Which is why, as a man with The Handsome Card, I really stand out. I mean, who wouldn't want to work with someone who's not only competent but also easy on the eyes? It's like a breath of fresh air in an industry dominated by, let's just say "unique" individuals.

So, consultants, take note: while looks may not be everything, they can certainly give you an edge. Just remember to keep your personal life out of the office – unless, of course, you're looking for a little romance on the side.