Look Taller, Get Paid More

It’s not just a tall tale: being blessed with height can help your career.

According to one British study, women who measure five feet eight inches or taller are twice as likely to earn more than $46,000 annually, $8,000 more than their shorter coworkers.

If you’re average height or petite, fear not. Learn to release your inner tall girl with these tips from body language and gender differences expert Patti Wood, MA, CSP.

Make your heels work for you. Wearing heels adds inches and increases the perception of height. But, if you wobble while standing or walking in them, it can actually be a disadvantage.

“People get impressions from your moving stance,” says Wood. “Shoes have to be comfortable and fit, with a stable heel.” Practice walking before taking new heels primetime can help.

Stand your ground. Wood, who is a petite five feet one and a half inches, says, “Subtle gestures to expand your silhouette can project a more powerful image.”

“Try standing with your feet apart, maybe an inch more than you’re initially comfortable.”

Know your stuff. Recognize and leverage the misconceptions of being petite. “You’re seen as less threatening, which can be great for collaborating and building alliances,” says Wood.

Nonetheless, research also shows men tend to listen to the smartest person in the room – regardless of appearance.

Clearly, success and standing tall has as much to do with confidence and attitude as it does altitude.

Bonus PINK Link: Your alter-ego, is she working for you?

How do you continue to develop your skills in your industry?

By Debra Shigley

Debra is a former employment attorney turned host of Deb’s Kitchen and author of The Go-Getter Girl’s Guide. You can visit her on Facebook or follow her on Twitter @Debrashigley.

“Strength and independence never go out of fashion.” Cynthia Good