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This happened about 2 months ago. I just want to vent.
I went to an interview for a security position at a hospital here in NYC (because it pays more than my current job). I cut about 4 inches off of my hair (from almost mid-back length ; I wasn't asked to, I just felt like I would have a better chance of getting the position). I basically had the job right after the interview. I was told to come back the next day with my documents.
The next day, I come back to the office, and the boss tells me "You have to shave off that beard". My heart immediately jumped after hearing this, because I knew I would not be coming back to this place right then and there. My "beard" is a very thin and cropped goatee. There were other security guards there with thick goatees and just moustaches. I guess he didn't like the way mine looked. So he told me to go outside while he did a background check. After this, I hopped on the train and left, and never looked back. He called my house and left a message wondering why I left. I called him back and told him that he told me something that made me feel uncomfortable and I didn't want the position anymore.
I hate the way i look without facial hair, and don't like this haircut I have (shoulder length). I can't wait until I have my hair back past my shoulder blades. Thankfully I still have my retail job, but I will graduate in September, with a Bachelor's Degre in CIS and will now be looking for computer jobs where thankfully (especially here in NYC) dress codes are less strict.
I just thought it was ironic that my long hair wasn't the problem, but the goatee.
Anyone else have a story like this?
I have not had an experience like this, but I understand. I do think that with some practice at job interivews and the like we begin to learn that it's always a two-way street. The "company" has their requirements, and we have ours. It's important to articulate those out loud.
I found myself wishing that you had been able to tell this guy that you were pleased that they wanted to hire you, but since your "beard" was clean and well-kept/trimmed, shaving it off was not something you could do. And then ask him: do you really want to lose me over this? You will find me to be an excellent (fill in the blank with your job description).
I find that if I go into an interview knowing these thingsa bout myself, and willing to say them without arrogance, that it is very powerful. As powerful as the guy who has the power to hire you.
Best wishes with your studies!
Robert