Beards, mustaches, and goatees fall into the gray area of what's appropriate for work. Whether you are first starting out in the real world or switching jobs, consult your employer's beard barometer before you break out the razor.
Let's say you've had your beard throughout college and you feel you'll lose a piece of your personality if you shave. Fear not -- shaving all facial hair may not be necessary in order to land a job. If your facial hair is a reflection of who you are, keep facial hair neatly trimmed and well-managed.
However, note that career counselors generally discourage more than two inches of facial hair.
Watch the Length
Before you submit your resume, do your research on the company to which you are applying. Their beard barometer could be set at zero, and those with facial hair need not apply. Employers like the Walt Disney Company do not tolerate any form of facial hair. Other companies, like Pitney Bowes, encourage their employees not to sport a beard, but do not require a clean face.
The financial industry's reputation of shunning facial hair is quickly fading. Facial hair is becoming increasingly accepted in today's appearance trends, and these companies are keeping up with the times. Deliotte & Touche allows men to keep their facial hair, but might provide a gentle reminder to clean up facial hair if you are starting to resemble ZZ Top.
Take It on the Chin
Goatees are a popular trend among college students and entry-level applicants. "I think a goatee generally is more accepted rather than a full beard," says Gregory Martino, cooperative education coordinator at Drexel University.
If the chin stubble is a personal style of choice, apply the no-more-than-two-inches rule and understand that it may raise questions for some people. "You [may] raise the issue of: Is this person sporting a beard, or is this person not shaving in the morning?" Martino says.
If you are still mulling over the big shave, consult a stylist. Your barber or stylist should be able to determine whether or not your facial hair looks unkempt. They can also provide tips on how to property incorporate a beard, mustache, or goatee into a professional look.
See the video version of this article and get more career help and employer videos at www.careertv.com. CareerTV has the largest collection of career videos online . Copyright 2008 CareerTV, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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