The halo effect is a cognitive bias that leads us to generalize and stereotype a person’s characteristics based on limited information. When we see certain favorable qualities in a person, we assume the existence of other favorable qualities, even though there is no basis for doing so. If someone is talented in one area, we assume that they perform well in other areas as well. Usually we have no idea that we are falling victim to this bias.

Physical attractiveness is one of the strongest qualities when creating a halo. For example, studies have shown that teachers often assume that the most attractive students are also smarter and unknowingly give them better grades as a result. As a group, taller men earn more than their peers with vertical challenges. This is the halo effect in action. We are all guilty of such distortions. We may sincerely believe that we should judge people on their merits and not make quick judgments based largely on superficial qualities, but we just can’t help it. The halo effect may not be fair, but it happens all the time.

How can you make the halo effect work to your advantage? Using it as the tool that it is: a lever. By increasing the number of favorable qualities you project, you can harness the strength of the impression that others will form. If you project one or two key positive qualities, the halo effect will make others take on one or two or ten more! You may not even possess these additional qualities, but others will ‘see’ them in you.

Note that there is also a reverse halo effect, sometimes called the “horns” effect. If you project one or two negative qualities, the people around you may assume that you have many other flaws and dismiss it from the start. For example, if you are a sloppy locker, people may conclude that you are disorganized, lazy, unambitious, untrustworthy, etc. You may not actually possess these qualities, but others will be convinced that you do.

What are the qualities that you want to project? Most of the people I work with want to convey the impression of experience, competence, confidence, professionalism, and authority. You may have other qualities in mind. Make sure everything about you supports these qualities so that you can take full advantage of the power of the halo effect. Look, act, and sound like the type of person who wants others to see you.

It doesn’t take a lot of money or effort to manage your image. Maybe this holiday season is a good time to rethink your wardrobe! What do your clothes say about you? What do you want them to say? What about your hairstyle, glasses, voice, accessories? There is still time to review your wish list.

And as you make your New Year’s resolutions, you’ll probably consider working on your diet, health, and fitness. This is the best time of year to plan a makeover. As they say, “A new year, a new you.”