Hair loss may be a nuisance, but could it negatively impact your career prospects? Surely, careers aren't ruined by a few problematic hair follicles!
The truth is that, regardless of whether you get the job or not, hair loss could impact how you're viewed in the workplace, how you're treated, and even how much money you make. But knowledge is power - understanding what you face and the options you have to combat and prevent hair loss will help you pursue the future you envision for yourself.
Ageism in the Workplace
If you're looking to leap into a new career you'll be facing stiff competition from fresh-faced graduates who are just getting started. Unfortunately, ageism is a problem in the workplace since many corporations are looking for new, young prospects that they can train and keep for the long-run. Actual age aside, hair loss can add 10 to 20 years to your appearance, potentially affecting how you are perceived in a side-by-side comparison with "Joe College" (assuming he doesn't have premature hair loss himself).
Of course, all of this is completely subjective and often subconscious on the part of the hiring party, but Management Today has published several articles - "10 Things that can Unexpectedly Ruin Your Career" - that point toward the unexpected complications of balding. Also, Huffington Post, Business Insider, and CNN Money have all run articles that assert that good-looking people earn more, citing not only style sense and looks, but also hair as a deciding factor.
First Impressions
True, hair loss is not exactly predictable and you don't have control over whether it affects you, but your looks help inform the first impressions people gather upon meeting you. As we mentioned, your interviewer probably won't consciously take note of your hair loss, but they may make assumptions about your age, your health, or your stress levels. Seeking hair loss solutions doesn't need to be about your ego, it's about maintaining the first impression you envision for yourself.
Gender Double Standards
Women experiencing hair loss tend to face a particularly uphill battle with public perception. Because hair loss is more common in men it can be perceived as a sign of bad health, poor hygiene, or illness when present in a woman. Unfortunately, women do undergo tougher scrutiny in this area and it is less likely that hair loss will be taken in stride. Though women typically have the option to use headscarves or headbands to hide their hair loss they may be subject to workplace dress codes that limit these options.
Psychological Effects
Above all else, if your hair loss bothers you it could have a negative impact on how you carry yourself and perceive yourself in a work environment. If your self-image is suffering because of insecurity about your hair it could easily carry over into your professional life. Self-consciousness, poor self-esteem, and other negative mental blocks could put you in your own way.
Don't let hair loss become your worst enemy! Most types of hair loss can be treated or reversed with proper treatment. Your hair follicles may have stopped doing their typical job in the cycle of hair growth, but it doesn't mean your problems permanent. A quick consultation can help you determine whether a surgical or nonsurgical option is right for you.
Don't let your hair loss control who you are and what you do. If you're experiencing hair loss and ready to pursue a change, come visit us at Mane Image. Our friendly, highly-trained staff understands the nuances of both surgical hair loss solutions and non-surgical hair loss solutions, and we are invested in helping you attain the hair you desire. To learn more about our services or to schedule a consultation, please contact us. We look forward to seeing you!
