Improving your odds of getting a job…
April 26, 2010
A couple weeks ago, I attended a career fair as an employer representatives looking for job seekers. While walking in the hallways midway through the event, I overheard somebody say, “Bet she won’t have a problem getting hired” about me as I walked by in a business skirt suit, heels, and well done hair and make up. What they said was flattering, but it made me stop and think.
Here’s the reality of job hunting. If your clothing appears outdated or too casual, hair/makeup/jewelry is not conservative and tastefully done, or you are excessively overweight the odds of you being passed over for a well groomed, physically fit/attractive, and appropriately dressed individual with similar experience and education is ridiculously high. Yes, I know nobody should be taking your physical appearance into consideration, but the reality is that people do it all of the time.
I’m not saying you won’t get a job. I am here to tell you that putting time and money into physical appearance can pay off when job hunting. Consider it an investment in your career. Sure, you can probably find a job without doing so, but exerting some effort in this area may just reduce the time you must spend interviewing and job searching.
I’ve heard many ridiculous reasons for not hiring somebody: head’s too big, missing teeth, ears were small, too much facial hair, too many ear piercings, visible tattoo, funky body odor, clothes seemed old and wrinkly, nails were chewed up (men and women), and the person was out of breath just walking from reception to the interview room (overweight). These are all things people have control over and can make or break your chance at your dream job.
too skinny (only heard that once, but the assumption was they had a cocaine addiction or were anorexic and therefore could possibly have too many personal issues that would distract from work responsibilities.
