Navigating Beard in Interviews: Grooming Standards & Professional Image

Dear All,

This is Sarfaraz here, an MBA graduate with a specialization in HR. I have a question regarding grooming for an upcoming interview. I have been sporting a beard since 2008, even during my college days. Would it be advisable to maintain my beard for the interview? Your guidance on this matter would be greatly appreciated.

Regards,
Sarfaraz

Beard and mustache have been a part of men's grooming since ancient ages. There is no harm in appearing in an interview with a beard, as long as it is neat, tidy, and well-kempt. It should add to the personality of the person and not act as a distraction or liability.

Agree with Raj Kumar, there is no harm in it, but you'll have to face many questions during the interview about why you're having this. Is this your hobby, etc.? So, be prepared to face these questions...

Hi all,

Having a beard technically doesn't disqualify you or is not a negative factor. However, it again depends on the industry. If you are working in the creative field, then it doesn't matter. But if you are in the hospitality sector, it matters. If you want to blend with the people, then it is better to remove the beard. If you want to look different, then you can retain the beard. A beard can't be an advantage in any case, but it can become a disadvantage in certain situations. In today's corporate world, people judge you in nanoseconds by your outward appearance. In such situations, it is a disadvantage. Rest, you can decide based on your preferences.

Prashanth, there is no point in discouraging anyone on an open forum, especially one meant for open discussion. You could have chosen to skip it if you didn't like the thread.

Thanks,
Anuranjan

I agree with Raj. Having a beard is no bar to attending an interview. If questions are asked about wearing a beard, it can be converted into a great opportunity interspersed with a good dose of humor. However, it all depends on how comfortable you are wearing a beard. If you are okay with it, just go ahead and do not worry about it. But do ensure your "face-gear" (mustache and beard) is trimmed and well-groomed to present a smart, neat look.

Best Wishes, Vasant Nair

Our system is derived from western standards where a clean-shaven face was a preference. However, things have changed now; but somewhere, it can be a hindrance as it all depends upon the mindset of your interviewer. As others have said, instead of a flowing beard, it would be a better idea to have a smart look with a trimmed one. Once selected, you can follow your inner voice.

Dear Safaraz,

Just read the replies that advise and ignore the ones that are sarcastic. Yes, a well-kept facial hair is not a hindrance to an interview. Take extra pains, even go to a salon before an interview. It's the man/woman behind the facade that counts. I appeal to the moderators to warn persons who cannot give positive replies but instead offer stupid, smart-aleck answers.

Regards,
Colonel J H Mayne

Hi all,

Each of us makes a statement with what we wear on our body. Our outward appearance is an indication of our personality. You could say technically that wearing a Dhoti Kurta is okay for an interview since it is an Indian dress and even Gandhiji wore that. But practically, who could dare to do that and get away with it? There is nothing technical in dresses. It is about conditioning. It is about what we are trying to convey and what the other person understands or misunderstands.

When a farmer goes without a shirt - we call it poverty. When Salman goes without a shirt - we call it style. When Baba Ramdev goes without a shirt - we call it spirituality.

I have had a beard since 1978. I served in the Navy until 1998, worked in IT companies from 1998 to 2010, and have recently retired. I maintain a well-groomed beard that complements my personality. If you choose to keep a beard for religious reasons, you can communicate that to others. The initial perceptions of interviewers greatly influence the final outcome. Your beard should not contribute to any negative perceptions.

Hi,

Sure, you can sport a beard. Take care that it is in a presentable form. Trim it and make it attractive. As a friend stated above, it should add to your personality and should not be a liability. You can expect a question about your beard and should reply appropriately if someone tries to provoke you about it. Good luck.

Pavithran.