It took me a couple of bruises before I realised the benefit of wearing a hat on the walk round - softens the contact between my head and the landing gear doors!
Good post by Brighton girl, I am sure she only represents a proportion of pax that see us in the terminal, but a professional appearance goes a long way in the eyes of a nervous passenger.
I also recommend the entire uniform as an alternative to plastic surgery. Apparently it makes me look like a school boy - thats over 10 years off my age!