Business 2.0 - Magazine Article - My Makeover
For more than two years, McClelland has run Geek Boy Services, a one-woman makeover consultancy. Her target: the army of ungainly men who write our code and keep our servers running — many of whom, alas, now have a lot more free time on their hands than they used to and are in desperate need of outside interests. Or, at the very least, a date. Even in these lean times, McClelland says, her phone is ringing off the hook.
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This was my idea! Well, the idea of me and all my girls in Silicon Valley back when I was still there.
Those of us who were single (and we all were at various times) really wished we could get those boys to clean up and open up.
Half the time, it was really a problem with the opening up more than the cleaning up. Just get comfortable with yourself! It was tiring running into the same dufusses with the same lines at the clubs. A shy smile from across the room was a huge attention-getter. Really.
But they had to speak when spoken to. Eye contact is critical too. Most of us have encountered the geek boy who cannot actually look directly at a female and speak at the same time. Or just look directly at a female. Or just speak.
Actually, I think I could do a better job than this woman. I've done a few freebies, and there are better ways to give men a "look" than just shoving your taste at them.
Article comments
1 - Craig Lyndall
As a geek who understands some fashion rules I am offended by the assumption that we all don't know how to dress.
I never wear plaid shirts with my ties.
I never wear short-sleeved dress shirts.
I never wear navy and black together.
I always match socks.
I do NOT wear my phone on my belt.
I buy new shoes despite the fact that the ratty looking ones are comfortable.
Did I miss any?
I think the queer guys would give this straight guy at least a C+ in the fashion department. That is a good score for any straight guy I think, let alone one who is also a geek.
2 - Murphy Horner
Well, Craig. I am amused by your defensive stance. Methinks he doth protest too much...
What made you need to deny the fashion upgrade? I betcha there are things invisible to you that are marking you as geek.
Simply NOT doing things wrong does not constitute a right. You only give yourself a C+. Come on now! A true geek is a true over-achiever. What do you think it would take to get an A?