Does the appearance of politicians have effect on their political career?

 

I found an article about Chancellor George Osbourn's new haircut on BBC news web page. People gave comments on this in Daily Politics. One lady mentioned the appearance was important in describing yourself as a politician. 

We all know hairstyle can change one's appearance heavily. Some hair makes you look gentle but some can make you look strict. Thus, the image (hairstyles, suits...) of politicians can be used as a way of political communication. A flat haircut may give the impression of being approachable and that is crucial if the politician wants support from the people.

In Daily Politics, one also commented on a politician with mustache and a full beard, saying he looks left-wing. So here they were talking about the appearance could also lead the public to think which political side the politician is on to some extent. If this is true, appearance should be one of the important political communication skills that all the politicians should know.

It seems the TV show is more an entertaining show than serious discussions. However, think about it, ordinary people get the first impression of a politician largely from his/her appearance. And the ordinary people are the ones politicians working on. Therefore, choosing a suitable style is essential and should be listed into the political communication skills politicians need to know.