| Topic Name: |
African-American women's hair styles.... |
| Message Name: |
Do What You Have To Do |
| Date Posted: |
03/11/2002 |
| In Reply To: |
This topic really caught my attention. Even though most, if not all, of the responses were from women, I can relate to a similar situation.
I'm a Native American man, who went through the dilemna of whether to cut my long hair to be "more corporate".
As a senior, at an Ivy League institution, I began interviewing in the fall and received no job offers. My hair was long, and I vowed to not compromise my "traditional" appearance for anyone. Not knowing the reason for the rejections (I had a 3.5 GPA and other credentials), I reluctantly cut my hair (hey, I needed a job!). I then received (6) job offers!
After accepting the position, I decided to grow my hair long again. Management became resistant to my long, "unprofessional" hairstyle, although it was neatly combed, and pulled under my collar (during business hours). I then sued for discrimination and am now living comfortaby while pursuing my MBA (heft settlement).
My advice is to cut your hair to fit into the "corporate mold". (Why give them another reason to disqualify you?) And once you get your foot in the door, be yourself. I realize this sounds like you're sacrificing your integrity, but hey, jobs are tough to get nowadays. And if they don't like it, sue them!
Good luck! |
| Message: |
As a diversity consultant I often encounter conversations similar this particular subject. I, too, find myself having to choose which hairstyle to have for a meeting or conference.
My advice to you (based on my personal experience)is three-fold. First, get the job. In today's market, do whatever it takes to gain employment. Second, think about how you want to grow within the company. The adage is to dress like your next position. Begin conservatively, watch how other black females in the industry/company wear their hairstyles and begin to migrate toward a style more suitable for you. Third, just ask. Contact the recruiter and ask if your hairstyle would be received. The worst he/she could say is no, right?
If no, adjust your style, get the job, collect a paycheck, then when the market improves, get a job that will be more receptive to your style (and will hopefully pay you more money) :)
Best wishes!
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