While wearing a beard has become more socially acceptable, you may still wonder whether you should play it safe and shave for an interview. There's isn't one answer to that question: You'll need to consider the employer, along with the condition of your beard, before making a decision.
Yes, I'm gonna shave:
Conventional wisdom calls for men to have a clean shaven face when applying for jobs or during an interview. This means no sideburns, chin whiskers, goatees or beards. Some corporate jobs are very conservative with strict guidelines involving dress codes and appearance. Interviewers are looking for applicants who fit the company image. Financial companies, government operations and medical professions have stricter guidelines when it comes to employee appearance. Do some research on the company or organisation before the interview and find out whether it has any restrictions on employee facial hair.
Nope, I'm keeping my beard:
Not all companies have rigid personal appearance guidelines. It may not be necessary for you to remove a beard for a position in the IT department of a company. IT companies focus more on skill than personal appearance –think Steve Jobs. Other jobs such as journalism, landscaping, architecture and manufacturing may also be more lax when it comes to facial hair. If you are applying to one of these jobs and decide to keep your beard make sure it is properly maintained. Visit a salon or barbershop to have the beard professionally trimmed and shaped before the interview.
When in doubt:
If your beard is sparse and patchy, it may make you look unkempt. Ask a few people who have good judgement what they think. When in doubt, shave for the interview. You can always grow your beard back later.
What to use:
Whether you decided to shave or keep the beard, it's important to keep a clean appearance. When choosing products, make sure they are as natural and organic as possible, as skin are the largest organs of your body, and whatever you puts on them - it shows. One of the example is our The Complete Duo, which has two multifunctional products that will keep you looking fresh and professional, making sure that you are always ready for your next big challenge!