Appearances and Impressions

My ex has longer hair (for a male). I did not have a problem with his appearance. I actually like longer hair on a man, usually. However, what I did have a problem with, was the fact that he loved his hair so much, he downright refused to cut it. This means when he would go in for a job interview, and they told him he could have the job, all he'd have to do is cut his hair, he wouldn't take the job. Not the smartest move.

Now, I understand that you don't want to be judged based on your hair or the rest of your appearance for that matter. I get that you want to be recognized for your skills and that your looks shouldn't matter. But fact is, in our society, first impressions count for a lot. Probably, more than what we'd like them to count for. If you already have a good job, and you're able to look however you want, that's awesome. Good for you, that's really saying something.

However, I've noticed that with my interesting generation, this whole "I'm going to look however I want and no one is going to tell me any different" thing is quite the trend. I see more and more facial piercings. I see more visible tattoos, and more outrageous hair cuts, or hair with 5 different colors in it, colors ranging from green to blue, black to pink.

I think it's great that these people want to be themselves, that they're not afraid of expressing themselves and of being different. I think that's great, really I do. What I don't think is great though, is that you're most likely going to have a harder time finding a job. And let's face it, money is what makes the world go 'round, as much as I hate that ugly truth.

If your probable employer has to choose between someone with an 'emo' haircut and snakebites or a plain-jane with equal job experience, they'll probably pick Jane. Why? She'll leave a better impression on the customer. It's as simple as that. Your pierced nose and black-blue hair doesn't impress anybody, no matter how cool you think it might be.

Changing your hair or appearance doesn't change who you are, but it might make a difference as to where you go in life and what jobs you get. So next time you think about getting a labret done, think twice about it.