Newsweek

In Today's World Being Beautiful is Everything

Welcome to 2010, a decade where it seems like looks are everything.  When it comes to getting hired and climbing the corporate ladder truth is – your resume will only get you so far. According to a Newsweek study, more and more hiring managers are seeking attractiveness and confidence over well qualified, unattractive candidates.  Living in a culture consumed by image, being an average candidate for the position with good looks wins almost every time – and no, it doesn't depend on the industry.

In general, attractive men make about 5% more than unattractive men holding the same position, attractive women, 4% more.  According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons 13% of women and 10% of men said they'd have plastic surgery if it helped them in the office.

Sad but true, it takes more than your smarts to get ahead.  What do you think?  Have you ever experienced discrimination based on looks?