Should Physical Appearance be a Factor when Hiring
Let's face it, physical appearance often counts, even when the hirer tries to keep it from doing so. Of course when we talk about physical appearance, we have to define which type of physical appearance we refer to. Some characteristics a person is born with, but others a person may choose.
When talking about a person's physical appearance, i.e. looks, height, weight, etc., we mean things a person cannot realistically change, at least not in a short period of time. It is not for the hirer to judge when it comes to these kinds of features or factors. While there may be times when a certain job requires a person to be thin or relatively attractive, the majority of jobs do not fall into this category.
Other physical appearance factors include outer apparel, hair styles, facial hair, etc. A business where the employee represents the company, might not hire someone who looks like a hippie. They also might not consider a woman who dresses like she should be in a bar somewhere. When it comes to certain standards and practices for a company, they may consider these factors when making their hiring choices.
Another point of physical appearance businesses may consider is cleanliness. One does not want someone with bad hygene habits working with food, working as a doctor or nurse, or doing other types of jobs where cleanliness is important.
Regardless, studies have shown that people tend to be drawn to more attractive people, more slender people, better dressed people, and so on. We are all guilty, even when we try not to be. As long as we have face-to-face interviewing, it will continue to be a factor. In a perfect world, qualifications would equal getting the job, but in the real world, that doesn't happen as often as it should.
This writer heard someone suggest recently that every business should be required to hire a fat person. Affirmative action for the obese is not the answer, but it would be nice to live in a world where your appearance didn't matter. Sadly, that is not most places on the planet earth. We all have prejudices, and we all tend to judge others based on appearance, at least at first. Unfortunately, at first is the only impression you get to give at most job interviews. Thank you to those who hire based on qualifications alone. We need more of you.
