Don't Judge the Potential Employee by their Looks

There have been a number of studies recently that have pointed out that the following people earn more and get promoted over other:

• Taller than average people (most CEOs are taller)
• Thinner than average (fat is considered a weakness)
• Blonde women over other women

As a result there is more demand for these people as everyone perceives them to be top performers. However, given some recent articles about leaders, we are not always choosing the right people.

Not wanting to get into a debate about whether this is fair or right; I thought about how can one use this to your advantage. Right away I thought of "Moneyball" and how there was a comment in about how the A's players didn't look like great athletes. However, statistically they performed well and cost less. As a result the A's were able to build a successful team with a 1/3 of the budget of the New York Yankees. Thus as you seek to drive performance and keep costs down, considering hiring those that may not be blonde, tall or thin, but focus on their potential performance and ability. You could find some great employees that out perform and are not in such great demand.