I am a black girl that has been wearing braids every since.............. well pretty much every since the 1st grade. My teacher told me that I should stop wearing them if I want to make it in the corp. world. My braids aren't in wild colors or anything I get them take down and put back up once a month. I really don't see the problem I want to be a lawyer and then go into government will people really care if I have braids or not????? Is it true that im more likely to get the job without them??
2007-01-01 14:53:21 · 11 answers · asked by Tip :) 4 in Society & Culture ➔ Other - Society & Culture
they are micro braids.
The lady that told me this is my Young Ladies League sponsor. She basicly teaches us the do sand don'ts of the real world. I askd about it and she that I should apply for the job with str8 hair and then after I'm hired wear my braids.But the thing is, I think thats kind of fake. I mean and I right? I stand up for what I believe in and I think that people should look at what I have to offer not my hair style.
2007-01-01 15:12:18 · update #1
Wear your hair in whatever style you feel comfortable. Prospective employers should look at your skills and knowledge not your hairstyle.
2007-01-01 18:55:28 · answer #1 · answered by ctsnowmiss 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I don't know if it is true; however, I could imagine, especially if you want to become a lawyer, that it might be much easier on yourself to wear a different hairstyle just not to stand out. In that profession, I think a classic hairstyle would be more appropriate (just to fit into the group). I am not trying to say I have a problem with braids, good for you (I have thin blond hair and probably would look bald if I'd try) - no, I am saying that just like wearing a suit instead of jeans in that kind of job, or pumps instead of sneakers. If you'd work in a hip clothing store, e.g, I'd say, keep the braids. Then again, I don't know how old you are and how long away from a career - things change so quickly these days, maybe it'll be just fine by then!!
Go for it girl!!!
2007-01-01 23:02:58 · answer #2 · answered by avechm 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Sadly, a lot of people judge by appearance, and you're teacher is partially correct. Some firm may not hire you because braided hair isn't a style they're used to. I agree with you though, if you like your hair in braids, leave it the way it is.. someone will hire you not for what style your hair is in but what potential you have as a lawyer. Do what makes you feel comfy, and what your heart tells you is right.
2007-01-02 00:13:55 · answer #3 · answered by sui_generis_shelly 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Lets put it this way: You are more likely to get the job if you fit the part. When doing interviews a prospective employer looks at your appearance, education, and background.
Do lawyers have braids? You want to fit the part. Later when you get the job you can be yourself.
I really dont feel braid should make a diference. Check it out yourself and talk to other lawyers.
2007-01-01 22:58:47 · answer #4 · answered by Nevada Pokerqueen 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It's true that there is a certian "look" in the corporate world. Break the mold, show them that anyone can do a good job; even if they have braids. but companies always have dress codes, so who knows.
(did you see the episode of Living Single? The guy took out his braids, it turned out that the bosses didn't care about his hair at all)
2007-01-01 22:58:30 · answer #5 · answered by coutterhill 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I have heard this same thing as well.
I have braids too. :D
Back in the day before braids were the norm, people were told that they had to change their hairstyles, and even today if you watch your local news or even national news, how many black people have braids in their hair, or even hair that is not straightened???
Truly, it is tragic, but one might be told a thing or two about having braids in the corporate world. But do keep in mind that it is discrimination, and that if you feel ever that it is discrimination, then sue. It is not legal to not hire or to fire someone based off their race, hairstyle, etc.
2007-01-01 22:57:27 · answer #6 · answered by . 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
your hairstyle should not bother anyone as long as its nothing ridiculus....as long as your hair is not very messy looking or in colors other than natural you should be fine.
but, you should consider wearing you hair down sometimes at corporate affairs, just to seem a little more sophisticated.
you dont have to stop wearing your hair in braids, but you should get used to wearing your hair in a buisiness-looking style.
you should be able to get the job with or without them..
it's more based on your skill,personality, and credentials.
i hope i helped you some!
2007-01-01 23:01:07 · answer #7 · answered by Lady Phantom 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The way you wear your hair does not have any bearing on how well you do your job. That kind of narrow-minded comment is what keeps society from looking past outward appearances! The corporate world is ever evolving and no one has the right to dictate to you what you should do to fit in!
2007-01-01 23:02:19 · answer #8 · answered by margie c 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I don't know, but I think that maybe you'd look a bit more professional if you didn't have your hair braided. Maybe not, and at any rate it sounds as though you look professional enough anyway. I figure you should just be yourself, and if you're worried about it you should ask your potential employer(s) if they have a policy about it.
2007-01-01 22:56:55 · answer #9 · answered by Rat 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would say it will depend on which field you are going in to. i have seen professional black women with braids that are perfectly acceptable. also it might be a good idea to find a mentor, an African American woman who appreciates what You are looking for in life and allow her to guide you. A woman whom you respect and has experienced the success you are also looking for will be the BEST guide for you, for everything from hair on up... good luck.
2007-01-01 22:58:55 · answer #10 · answered by Codi 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋