By Jeff Altman, The Big Game Hunter
It’s an unfortunate truth that how you look does play a role in whether you get hired for some jobs. Employers make snap judgments about people all the time.
00:00 Intro
00:23 The truth
01:00 What research shows
01:21 The limitations
01:55 An example of where appearance is protected
02:26 What to do
02:49 Summary
04:00 Outro
15 Minute Job Search Tips: Check Your Wardrobe
Does appearance affect your job prospects? I’m Jeff Altman, The Big Game Hunter. I started to be called The Big Game Hunter when I did recruiting. I hunted down leaders and staff for organizations. Did it successfully for a long time. And now people hire me for no BS job search and career advice globally because I make the process of finding work a lot easier. And there’s a variety of other things I help with as well.
Now, firstly, it’s an unfortunate truth that how you look does play a role in whether you get hired for some jobs. Employers make snap judgments about candidates all the time, and they may turn down qualified people because of piercings, tattoos, unusual hair colors, or even just based on weight or attractiveness. It’s not fair, but it does happen.
Research shows that good-looking people are perceived as more competent, confident, and qualified for jobs, even when they have the exact same credentials as other people. And in some client-facing roles, there’s no doubt that companies consider attractiveness, because they assume this will please customers more.
However, while good looks can help get your foot in the door, it’s still crucial to actually have the skills to do the job well, because employers won’t keep someone around just for their appearance if they can’t deliver results. In addition, while there are laws to prevent employment discrimination based on race and gender, disability rule and religion, discrimination based on appearance, it is generally not illegal unless you can show that it relates to one of these protected classes.
For example, refusing to hire someone with an afro hairstyle might be considered racial discrimination. If you feel you weren’t hired because of your looks, it can be hard to prove. Employers don’t usually admit discrimination. My advice would be to simply focus on showcasing your skills and qualifications during an interview process rather than worrying about your appearance. Make them see you for the world-class professional you are.
That said, you should dress appropriately and professionally for interviews. It helps make a good impression. Just be yourself within that framework. Don’t drastically alter your style just to try and get hired. The right employer will appreciate you for who you are. So don’t be a phony here. Okay?
The right firm will hire you for the way you are and the way you present. If you ever get clear feedback that your appearance is an issue for hiring, you may need to evaluate if modifying your style is worthy for that job, or company. Do not, I repeat, do not ever feel pressured to change something about yourself that expresses your identity. Sometimes, and this is your choice, not mine. And I’m not advising you, you may decide that a small concession like covering a piercing might be reasonable if needed.
I’ll just conclude by saying I hope you feel confident in everything you do professionally. That’s in interviews, that’s in your work. I never encourage people to compromise who they are. Let your talent speak for itself. Don’t be afraid to be you at your best. If an employer can’t appreciate who you are, they’re not the right fit for you. Keep an open mind, a great attitude and the right opportunities will come to you.
I hope you found this helpful. I’m Jeff Altman. My website is TheBigGameHunter.us Go to the blog and go exploring. There’s just a ton there that will help you. In addition, you can schedule time for Trusted Advisor Services where I answer questions from people. You can schedule time for coaching. If you’re not sure, you can schedule a free discovery call at the site. You can also find out about my video courses, books and guides. There’s a lot there to help. Lastly, connect with me on Linkedin at linkedin.com/in/TheBigGameHunter. Have a terrific day and be great!
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ABOUT JEFF ALTMAN, THE BIG GAME HUNTER
People hire Jeff Altman, The Big Game Hunter to provide No BS Career Advice globally because he makes many things in peoples’ careers easier. Those things can involve job search,
hiring more effectively, managing and leading better, career transition, as well as advice about resolving workplace issues.
Schedule a discovery call at my website, www.TheBigGameHunter.us
He is the host of “No BS Job Search Advice Radio,” the #1 podcast in iTunes for job search with over 2600 episodes.
Website: https://www.TheBigGameHunter.us (schedule a paid coaching session, a free discovery call or ask questions using my Trusted Adviser Services)
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/TheBigGameHunter
Courses: https://www.TheBigGameHunter.us/courses
Books and Guides: https://www.TheBigGameHunter.us/books
Resume & LinkedIn Profile critiques www.TheBigGameHunter.us/critiques
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