It's funny - I was just thinking about this same topic today before I found this post so here are my thoughts from earlier:
Think about your own tastes for a moment... what do you consider attractive? I mean attractive qualities, not what the media says we should think is attractive. I know for myself, CONFIDENCE is an attractive quality.
I wouldn't call myself completely unfortunate, but I'm not exactly hot either. I can go from completely homely to getting wow's. When I go out in public with my hair up and sweats on with no makeup, I am not as confident. I tend to not do business on those days because I don't typically feel good enough about myself to do it... however, when I put on nice, professional, classy and trendy clothes (NOT provocative! and do my hair and makeup, I am much more confident and it's noticeable! I talk more, look people in the eye more, smile more and exude more confidence in general.
I have found myself attracted to people who are confident, but not necessarily perfect looking per society. Confident people look you in the eye and are engaging. They want to know about you and listen. That is attractive. People who are well spoken and attentive are attractive. Ever noticed that? Even if they aren't "pretty" they are still attractive to us.
So don't think that 100k in plastic surgery is going to make you sell more real estate. There are simple things you can do to boost your own confidence.
Here's a few:
Take some courses on public speaking. Being able to talk in public and talk confidently to people will automatically make you more confident, and therefore more attractive. Look into Toastmasters in your area or do some public speaking classes.
Keep yourself fit! Even just go for a walk a few times a week. It produces endorphins, making you happier, and therefore... more confident. This sounds stupid, but I also pay $50/mo for a tanning membership. I go get sprayed every few days because it just makes me feel better. Guys - keep yourself well groomed and well dressed. Girls - put a little effort into your hair and makeup as well as choice of clothing. It's okay to spend a little money on yourself. No, it's not shallow if it makes YOU feel better. First impressions are everything!
Eat a good clean diet - this will help you feel better about yourself. Remember, you are what you eat! Eat of load of junk, you'll feel like a load and that passes to your actions too. You'll feel heavy, greasy, frumpy etc.
Make sure you know your stuff! This one is huge. Know your target market details, whatever that may be. That way, when someone asks you something, you'll have the answer in your back pocket. Always do your research and be up to date.
Don't forget - Knowledge is Power.
When you have knowledge, confidence replaces fear!
I think everyone has their own idea of what "attractive" is, but I really think confidence is key. It sounds cliche, but watch yourself being engaged by those that exude confidence and then dig into what makes them that way. I've come across pretty darn good looking people that I don't care to work with, be around or associate with because they are airheads, into themselves, don't know what their doing, etc. You get the idea.
After saying all this, I can honestly say that I struggle with confidence and that is why I employ these things myself. For some reason, I can't get past my own negative inertia sometimes. Don't laugh, but I actually have a bracelet that says "Damn, I'm Good!" When I need a little boost, I look down, read that and then stand up straight again and keep going!
I know this was long, but I hope it helps - at least to clear up any "attractive" myths!
You are what you think you are...