Bob,
I agree, first impression do matter. But as you pointed out with your examples, sometimes appearances are deceiving. Yes, we do live in a "judge a book by its cover" world, and more often than not, someone's appearance gives a lot on insight into their work practices.
Consider this: 2 guys, equally qualified: one is wearing a clean shirt (with no printing) tucked into Carhartt shorts. The other is wearing dirty jeans and a "Budweiser" t shirt. It's hard to say who the "better" electrician is, wouldn't you say?
Myself, if company policies say "No shorts allowed" then I'm not wearing them. However, if given a choice, I will wear shorts, weather permitting of course.
As far as that driver goes, it sounds like he was trying a little too hard to emulate Tommy Lee. Gross!
Peter
