That Smell Better Not Be You - Seriously!

Hygiene as Important as Attire

I know. Everyone's thinking is he serious? Absolutely.

The truth is that the majority of individuals going on a job interview already understand the importance of a good, clean physical appearance. As a manager, I’ve had the opportunity to interview many candidates for available positions. The majority were squeaky clean. However, I do remember a number of people who were not. One young lady never bothered to brush her hair or teeth and it showed. Another person being interviewed really smelled bad.

It is important to know that as a prospective employee it is in your best interest to keep the focus on your ability to do the job. A neat appearance sets the stage for you to sell your skills as the best candidate for the position. Let the interview center on you, not your hygiene.

With that said, let's get right to it. If you’re a person with a disability and have difficulty with activities of daily living, such as bathing, brushing, or dressing prepare early. This means:

* Ensure that a family member or personal care assistant can assist you with bathing, brushing and personal hygiene issues before the actual interview.
* Have someone available during the interview time in case of last minute emergencies. (As a person with a disability myself, I can tell you that if anything is going to go wrong it is when you’re least prepared.)
* Brush your teeth! Brush your teeth thoroughly and preferably right before the interview. While the Austin Powers look may have been popular in Old England, it is not cool when you’re trying to land a job.
* Brush your hair. If you need help, get it. Do not use overly scented gels or hair sprays in your hair.

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