Boobs-N-Business

[Annie Sever-Dimitri]

So....I have noticed more business women sporting miles of cleavage at networking events this summer. One chick's was so just out there that I bet her temperature controls were visible when she bent over. From an image consulting perspective, this is a killer for building business. I feel men don't take us seriously when we are showing almost as much mammary as a pole dancer at P.T.'s.

What do you think? Guys, how does a massive boob display affect your opinion of business women? Ladies, what are your thoughts?

[Stephen James]

I think it would make a female look as if she was trying to manipulate--similar to including a head shot with a resume for an office position. It is difficult for me to believe this person would be unaware of that. I'd stay away, but I tend to be attracted to nerds and artists-- it's often difficult not to prejudge beautiful women as shallow. The sad thing is that it does seem to work. I know of a woman that added her picture to her business card and got a significant increase in business calls.

[Phillip Chestnut]

It's sad to say, but sex sells.

[Michael R.]

I have noticed more business women sporting miles of cleavage at networking events this summer

Annie, boobs need air circulation to stay supple. A cramped, sweaty boob is unhappy, and unsavory.

[Annie Sever-Dimitri]

Michael,

You are hilarious!!! I do agree that a cramped, sweaty boob is unhappy and unsavory. I just feel there is a time and place to provide the funbags with the necessary circulation--at the pool, at home, and when out with my man (and it is just me and him,not with another couple). The rest of the time, I don't want to be known for looking like I work at Hooters. That is just me.

Really, I do find you hilarious! Thanks for your comments.

[Bob Calliger]

As a business person and a male, I would find that sexual expresion, regardless if thay are boobs or tight wear, very distracting from the actual person that is across the table from me. I do realize that is the point of having something that sells, it still is somewhat of a lighting rod for any types of comments or conclusions from the staff.
Moderation and good taste are always the watchword in business unless you are in the business to sell sex.

[Michael R.]

Yo, Boobarella, how they hangin'? I actually prefer a woman in a business suit in an office setting...leaves more to the imagination. Since we're on the topic, I think SI should sponsor some kind of wet t-shirt contest. That would surely increase membership:)

[Stephen James]

Sorry, Michael, but this is SMALLER Indiana.

[Michael R.]

tee hee

[Linda J Ranger]

I must admit I have noticed this too. So often this cleavage emphasis seems to be mostly on women who do not have good figures. I guess they will take any notice from men they can get. A friendly, confident, and well dressed woman gets the right kind of notice from all of her peers without the extra exposure. To me it would be the same if a professional man came to work or a network meeting in a tank top. Yikes!

Professional dress has become more casual but this exposure has gone too far yet most TV shows seem to be reinforcing this type of dress for work.

[Janet Falkenberg]

I agree with you Linda. Good taste in clothing, jewelry and perfume choices are NEVER out of style. A woman can be in casual wear and still appear stylish without the extra exposure. I've always wondered what such women think men are noticing in a business situation.

[Jennifer Anderson-Henry]

Interesting question, Annie. I have to admit that some of the replies have surprised me thus far. I think I'll sit this one out for the time being and perhaps chime in later...

[Kathi Moore]

Okay I admit I'm the one with the sweater on in my profile picture....but I am also a big advocate of "dress appropriately"...we do have a couple of people at work who are sporting unnecessary cleavage. Call me old-fashioned (go ahead...do it), but I just do not think its appropriate, any more than I think men in short sleeved shirts (other than polo) are a good thing! And don't even get me started on flip flops in the workplace!