Choose carefully

Personal style, appearance can impact chances of getting the job

In the final analysis, it’s difficult to figure out why one job applicant is selected for a position over all the others. The world of interviewing and the employee-selection process are filled with unknowns and preconceived ideas that silently impact final decisions.

The tough thing is that these variables and prejudgments change from business to business. When you’re seeking a job, it’s nearly impossible to predict what may or may not work in your favor.

The question of appropriate attire versus personal style seems to be a recurring issue. Of course, you have a right to wear whatever clothes you choose and color your hair however you like. At the same time, you might risk either offending or turning off a decision-maker for a job.

Before you jump all over me, keep in mind that I’m a child of the ’60s. I always cheered at this scene from the movie Alice’s Restaurant: “So I took off my hat, and said, ‘Imagine that, me working for you,’” when Arlo Guthrie took off his hat, and his long hair spilled down over his shoulders. The message was, of course, that people should be hired for their ability, not held back for how different they look.

Men and woman alike color their hair all sorts of unnatural colors. Just beware, however, that some hair colors and hairstyles may not be appropriate in a conservative business environment. It’s a risk you should be aware of and count the cost of before you reject the thought of conforming.

Body piercings can also be misinterpreted by some interviewers. Bejeweled tongues, cheeks, navels, noses and other spots might be considered disruptive or not welcomed in the workplace. Tattoos might also cause negative emotional reactions.

If you want to improve your chances in the interview arena, take note of your:

➤ Clothes: They should be clean, well-pressed, if necessary, and appropriate for the work environment.

➤ Hair: Tresses should be clean and well-groomed.

➤ Breath: It should be fresh and able to pass the “closeness” test.

➤ Language: Never use “inappropriate” words during the interview (you’d be surprised how many people do this).

Finally, let me really confuse you and say that in some hiring circumstances, the very things mentioned earlier in this column may be considered a plus. Tattoos, body piercings and uniquely colored hair may actually be a welcome addition in some work areas.

So how can you know what’s acceptable? If possible, check out the workplace, and talk with others who have a position like the one for which you’re applying.

If the dress and professional appearance are conservative, consider being conservative. If the place where you’re seeking employment either tolerates or encourages a more liberal physical appearance, then go for it. Just make sure you remember the bullet-point recommendations I’ve noted.

— Gary Moore is president of Insight Edge. He has more than 30 years of business experience and specializes in the Personality Priority hiring process, sales and leadership training. Visit Moore’s website,

www.insightedge.com, or send email to garymoore@insightedge.com.

Photo by iStock