Bob,

I don't think so.  There is an advantage to being competent, well known and well liked.  It may help at first, but the proof is in what you can do in the long run.  We have never liked the practice.  The majority of our clients only have their pictures on their web sites on the about page.  

One of our clients is drop dead gorgeous.  It inhibited her in getting listings because often the wives were jealous of her looks, so while she was single, she wore a diamond ring and wedding band so that factor was somewhat softened.  A

Good looking, NO...(Look at me)  I think that this Profession realizes the advantage of being recognized by the public.

I think photos on business cards help to put a face to the name, and that helps to build relationships which is more important in real estate than in most other professions.

If an agents appearance makes the babies cry,  they just might consider other facets of real estate that are well established, and do not rely on a synthesized smiling face.

If one's image is an asset, (even if long past expiry date) then one should shake that asset for all it's worth. What other agent think matters not a whit.

Honestly, yes I think it helps.  The truth though is that it helps in most businesses...even if it's on a subconscious level.  Height helps, too, esp for guys.  Look at studies on height and average salary.

No business card pictures or sign pictures for us. 

I'm not going to lie....It's helped me a lot ;)

As beauty is in the eye of the beholder for some things; but as a salesperson if you do not know your stuff you better become a model for someones wish list.

What an agent looks like is always a factor attached to that phone call or first contact.... if the looks are complemented by intelligence, it's a done deal....if not, they keep looking....

It helps if you want to star on reality TV show million dollar listing. Then you become a top agent from the publicity. It's a self-fullfilling prophecy. 

The founder of my brokerage Barbara Corcoran says:

"Go with what you got"

I go with my experience and knowledge ;-)

I think if you are going to put your picture on a card, it would be an advantage if you were good looking.  People can be so shallow you know.

I guess I better get the photo off my card of me "mooning" people. LOL

I think that projecting a healthy, confident image is a must.  We've had many clients reach out to us because they say we look "very nice" in our picture, like nice people.  

Image is important and it opens many doors for us, but we have to back it up as well.  

No, I think that would be a superficial way to look at it. If someone is outstanding and looks professional that is what you want for a major purchase.

God, I hope not. I see too many attractive people that can't find their ass with their own hands.  I just want someone who knows their craft and whose focus is on serving me ...

I don't put my photo on anything expect my websites.

I think a professional, well-groomed presentation is more important than good looks. 

You tell us Bob? Folks would rather look at who they are dealing with to put a face with a name and voice on the telephone.

Recognition while going about town, on websites, social media and more.

Other professions often use photos such as actors, coaches, etc.

I keep my picture if my card and as far as the little guy watch out Debbie we are a tough bunch

I hope that does not have an affect on sales!   I did finally put my photo on cards after years in the business with the push of my broker!

Attorneys also use their photos and so do car salesman and insurance people. Human studies have shown that good looks break down barriers and gives the good looking people a slight advantage.

So, Bob, I'd say you are good looking enought.

I think the purpose of including a photo is just to give out readers some way to connect.  In my entire time blogging here, there's only been one guy who was funny looking enough to probably leave off a photo, and he's long gone from both ActiveRain and probably the industry. 

And it wasn't just his looks.

It's a form of identification and it works. I've had my picture on signs forever and lots of people around town introduce themselves to me or insist they've met me in the past when they haven't.  I believe it helps with name recognition. I've also garnered quite a bit of business over the years from the interenet where people have told me they selected me just because they liked how I looked and that I looked like I would get the job done.

Bob, i think there are two very important distinctions in your question. Yes.... yes yes yes... (really? u think yes?) you should put your picture on cards. Cards are HANDED to someone the majority of the time. You now have met them. Shaken hands, fist bumped,high 5 etc. Whereas other forms of advertising i believe should not have your picture. Billboards, grocery stores, print ads etc. The exception maybe a flyer where there is lots of wording.In my opinion, i think the picture thing is a weakness not a strength.

very very good question

mike