How Come I Keep Getting Turned Down?

Here is a question I recently responded to from Yahoo Answers! I share this question because I want to remind each of you to remember two things from this question. The first thing, is grooming matters in the hiring process. I recommend to those I coach, to look at the organization. Look at the people who work there. How do they dress? Whatever is acceptable grooming will be defined by the leaders and employees in the organization. If you are having some difficulty getting into a particular organization, check out your personal presentation.

The Question:

I keep getting turned down for a job. I had one job for a month before a I quit when I was 16 but now I’m 19 and going to a Junior College full time to get an Associates in Criminal Justice. However I have 4 years of JROTC experience, (Meaning a lot of leadership skills) and I have been a teacher’s assistant for a few different classes.

I have a reason for not getting a job but it’s a bit of a sob story which I can tell people perfectly fine however I usually think employers really don’t want to hear it. (In short my family of 4 turned into just me and my dad who is still recovering from cancer surgery).

It may be my appearance, I have slightly long hair, (length goes to about my upper lip, if that gives you any idea) and a well groomed, short full beard. Though I always gel my hair when going to an interview and wear slacks and a nice shirt. I was also thinking it may be my accent, I live in California and I have somewhat of a southern accent.

My Answer:

If you are interested in getting a job, I must say you have already begun the process. Just by giving yourself feedback, that is a beginning. Let me also say up front, if you keep doing what you have always done, you will get the same results. It sounds like you need a new approach. Start with some of the things you have already shared in your question. If you need to make adjustments in your appearance, do so.

Your appearance is important to employers. You represent them. Look at the people working in the organizations you are attempting to work, do you look anything like them? If no, then you absolutely need to make some changes. I do not by any means believe you should be a clone of the others. Uniqueness is ok, but depending on the organizations you are attempting to get a job it could be detrimental for you.

Please take a look at this series of posts about one my direct reports. He was considered a generation x’er when he worked for me. He might help!

Rob’s Story
Rob’s Story Part Two
Rob’s Story Part Three

The second reminder, for you is that typically the answers to your most challenging questions are within you. Don’t discount questions you have about yourself or about your performance. If you think that you are struggling in the hiring process because of your appearance. Take a moment and think about that feedback. Is it possible? Is it true? If so, what are you willing to do about it? Once you have the answer to these questions move forward with an action plan, and get back in the game!