• SumoMe

The Better Half is a no-holds-barred question and answer session with Maria, the resident expert on all things from a woman’s point of view. Maria answers all types of questions related to men’s fashion, grooming, lifestyle, interests, and advice on maintaining the mantra: happy wife, happy life. Maria is a sassy, organized, and accomplished 20-something bibliophile with a Master’s degree who knows a thing or two about improving the lives of men. Maria also writes her own blog, called Forever in Pearls.

If you have a burning question that you want answered, go ahead and ask Maria.

I’m what I like to call a “chronic intern,” meaning I graduated with a college degree and I’ve worked close to 5 unpaid internships in marketing, while making money as a waiter. This isn’t exactly what I like to tell girls when I first meet them, so what can I do? Girls like guys with jobs, and I don’t want to lie and say I’m in marketing, but I also don’t want to tell them I’m a waiter. Help, Maria!
–Marcus from Brooklyn, NY

You’re right in thinking that you shouldn’t lie about your employment status when you meet women. That’s the fastest way to start a relationship on the wrong foot. Be honest, but explain that the situation is temporary. When you get the inevitable “So what do you do?” just say something along these lines: “Well, I’m currently working as a waiter to support myself while I finish a marketing internship at Electrogent Incorporated. I’ll be applying to jobs in that field soon, but I wanted to build up my business credentials first.”

While it’s true that girls like guys with jobs, girls also like guys who are ambitious and know the value of hard work–which it seems like you do. Tell her about your career goals. Tell her where you want to work and what you want to do and where you see yourself in 5 years. Let her know that there’s more in your future than just being a waiter. But any girl that judges you for having a temporary job as a waiter isn’t worth it anyway.

I’m a guy in his early twenties, average in all respects. Because of this, I don’t stand out to women very well. What are some attractive qualities that will make me stand out?
–Brian G. from Canada

Sometimes, the most attractive guys aren’t the best looking ones, or the ones with the biggest muscles, or the ones who are the most intelligent. I know many “average” guys who have done very well with women simply because they are confident. Guys who are outgoing and self-assured tend to have a magnetic presence that draws people to them, even if they are average in every other aspect. Now, I know that building confidence doesn’t happen overnight. But the better you feel about yourself, the more positively others will perceive you.

Start by dressing well, and wear clothes that fit properly. Baggy cargo shorts, t-shirts, and flip flops do not an attractive man make. Wear cologne (but not too much). Keep yourself well-groomed. Also, be a gentleman when you’re around ladies. I know that sounds silly, but you’d be surprised at how crass and rude some men can be when they’re around women. Men who are kind and respectful stand out more than ones who swear, burp, and make comments about how girls look. It’s hard for girls to find a true “gentleman” these days. That alone will make you stand out. Now add a little bit of confidence, throw it in a pot, add some broth, a potato and baby you got a stew going.

XOXO

-Maria