So, I've been thinking... Should I start applying for another job. I think I have my game plan all mapped out. Is it time to make that move or should I stay a little longer. I have read a lot of post about having locks in corporate America. I did not have locks when I interviewed for my current job. My sister just recently landed a new job, she is natural, but does not have locks. She rocks the kinky twist and wears her hair pinned up nicely in interviews. I always figure, hey I can pin my locks up too. The interview is always about first impressions. But is Corporate America ready for my shells, my earrings, my CD collection and books that I keep on my desk. If their not, all well. I can't change me, accept me as I am... (after you make that salary offer) LOL!
There are two jobs that I will apply for, I am in no big rush to leave where I am. I enjoy the work and I am here to learn. Sometimes money can be the issue and that would be the only motivational issue for the change. I do not mind commuting all the way out here to Baltimore. I get to sleep on the train, or do some homework, or jot down blog ideas. Although, it would be nice to be closer to home.
When it comes to work, I don't think appearance should be an issue. I think what counts most is work ethics, experience, and education. 
9 comments:
I certainly agree that your appearance does not affect your work ethic and you should not be discriminated against for having your hair natural or wearing cultural garments. Yet, corporate america is very conservative and we must do our best to break down those barriers.
I recently interviewed and was hired by a corporation.
I wore my 7" to 9", 16 month old locs in a French roll with a few loc "trendils" hanging down across my forhead. In my new role, I won't interact with clients in person, only on the phone.
My DH suggested I wear my hair up for the interview. I don't plan to wear my hair up every day at work and I also don't plan to worry about it. You don't have anything to worry about either!
As long as you are clean and presentable, you should be fine. I do know that Natasha did a post regarding this concern as well. A good point that was made was to research the company you're interviewing with, to grasp the culture. Since you have a nice length your hair options are unlimited.
It is a shame that anyone would judge you strictly on the basis of your hairstyle. I would agree with the idea of being conservative on the interviews and creating a great first impression. You don't know how conservative the company or the interviewer might be. When you get in you can rock your shells, locks, and new age CDs and enlighten some folks. :-)
On the subject I have to spoke from my personal expierence. I'm the only black female in my field and there are at least 80 people within my department. I have made comments to some to let them know what I'm planning to do to my hair without a negative reactions so far. I also put a photo of an example of sisterlocks in my office. Your interactions and personal being will mean more than your hair for someone who wants to hire you. Also your locs do not look like dreadlocks from photos anyway so if you are not asked most likely they will assume that they are braids. Once your hired that is it your protected against being discriminated solely due to your hair. So reach for your new goal and don't worry about your hair because now it is just a part of who you are. Just like a man loves you for who you are. Your employer will see you as Lakia with the pretty hair.
You won't have anything to worry about. So just go for it and do what you have to do.
You have beautiful locks and they look very professional already in that you keep them groomed and well maintained. Somehow I don't think you'll have much of a problem landing the job you really want.
I once interviewed for a job and the guy confessed at the end of the interview that over the phone he imagined me to be a petite blonde cheerleader type. Boy was he surprised and that's when I was rockin' the wash and go....he offered me the job anyway but I ended up turning them down for a better offer. Let your inner light shine!!
I was hired by the Vice President of a consulting firm (my current J-O-B) when I had an AFRO (7 inches) in June of last year. I started my SL's on aug 31st. And those guys didn't mind my HAIR!!! This is how it went...
I was working for a major Pharmaceutical Company where the VP of the consulting firm was contracting. I worked with him once or twice...and he offered me a J-O-B. Mind you....I am the only african american female at the consulting firm. And 1 of 2 african americans PERIOD.
At my 1st J-O-B, I was hired right after graduation, which was a week after I took the scissors and cut off all of my HAIR (my mom flipped.lol) ...then drove to the barber shop and got the back tapered.
My waves was spinnin'
So, all in all. Just be yourself. That's all you can do.
I think your locs look very professional and pretty!
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