I just have a goatee, but I used to have a full beard. I just like the look of a goatee. I originally grew my beard when I was promoted to a management position at my old company and I realized that I wasn't being taken seriously because I have a baby face (plus I was just a few years out of college - I was 26-27, I think). The beard helped a lot, it made me look older and mature.

I actually shaved it off at one point, but it gave me food poisoning and I had to miss an MLS playoff game. I was so disturbed by the fact that I had a burgeoning double chin that was revealed by the lack of scruff that I immediately went on a diet - soups and salads for lunch. Something in one of my salads made me sicker than a dog, and the playoff game was that night.

So I am living proof that shaving off your beard can be hazardous to your health. Leave 'em on.