HR Speaks Out on Body Image SINS That Affect Your Job Search & Career Life

By Elizabeth Benu,

The past Sunday saw the world’s most pierced man, Rolf Buchholz been denied entry into Dubai .The 53-year-old German has 453 piercings on his body and face and an addition of two horn implants on his forehead. The airport staff was said to have feared that he was practising “black magic” hence denying him the entrance.

When it comes to body adornments it’s allowed to have fantasies or even ‘treat’ your body to numerous body piercings, huge back and neck tattoos, the daring hairstyle or gothic make up but have you stopped to wonder what it does to your body image in the corporate world?

“If I met that person (Rolf Buchholz) for the first time I would be shocked and think that he has a problem,” says Mercy Makena HR Consultant at Virtual HR

If such a person had the required academic qualifications and they showed up for an interview, would you hire them? I ask

“I would not hire such a person because the first impression matters a lot. Even with the right papers and necessary requirements, it is still no for me,” adds Ms. Makena

Apart from the piercings Ms. Makena has seen other bizarre things concerning body images

“I do not have a problem with weaves but some are too big and they give a different impression. Some employers want simple candidates and if your weave does not spell simple then you do not get the job,” says Ms. Makena.

“In addition to that, a lady once came for an interview with 10 different colors of nail polish on her nails and to top it up her nails were too long. There are also people who wear very strong perfumes that hang in the office long after you are gone. Not everybody will be comfortable with such strong smells,” she says

Ms. Makena also says that some ladies wear too much make up which is also not good for your image.

Ms Makena says that covering a tattoo is better for the purpose of impressing the hiring manager.

“Do away with the funny body adornments before you go for the interview. Outside the office it is okay to wear them. For example for men who wear earrings, it is advisable to remove them before you get into the interview room,” she advices.

“Before attending an interview or going to an office setting, look in the mirror. Ensure you dress appropriately and comb your hair in the right manner and that you have perfect nails; just the right size and not too long. One color of nail polish is enough when going for an interview and a mild perfume will do just fine,” Ms. Makena wraps up.

Your body image should work to make an impression to the hiring manager, stand in front of the mirror and start working on it.

Dont Miss any Job Or Article Subscribe to Career Point Kenya by Email FOR FREE CLICK HERE