I was impacted in a recent layoff and I have been interviewing like crazy into several final rounds, however no offers.

Anonymous

September 16,2023 at 6:45PM UTC

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I was impacted in a recent layoff and I have been interviewing like crazy into several final rounds, however no offers. Over the pandemic I stopped dying my hair and sadly, I think this is preventing me getting offers. No one will admit it, since it’s illegal, but I think it is a factor. Im mid-sr career still so I have significant time before I could retire. I hate to admit Im considering re-dying my hair just to get an offer.

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Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition SpecialistSeptember 17,2023 at 4:15AM UTC
It's illegal and it sucks hard but ageism is a for-real thing.
I hate that this is even an issue - especially since it's mostly an issue that only women experience. Men get distinguished looking, women get old looking so the saying goes.
That being said, you have to evaluate your priorities. Personally, I'm a big fan of living indoors and things like electricity so I say give yourself every advantage. If you feel you're being passed over for any reason and can take that issue off the table, I'd strongly consider it. Level the playing field for yourself.
AnonymousSeptember 18,2023 at 3:46PM UTC
Yes, dye your hair!
Or, wear a wig. It's Halloween costume season, and you may find a cheap wig that you can style in a professional way. I have a few brown wigs just in case.
For my current job, I touched up the gray for a zoom interview with mascara! It takes what it takes.
AnonymousSeptember 21,2023 at 1:08PM UTC
please know this is simply my opinion and take it as it is :) I am 35 and have embraced my natural salt and pepper. Hair is not the only thing that ages us. If you truly feel it is impacting you, go to a professional and have high lights and low lights put in with a Demi gloss. This will allow you to still embrace your age but also bring a youthfulness to you (plus you might feel more confident). Please don’t dye your hair one flat color. If anything it will age you more.
one last thing to think about: as I said hair isn’t the only thing that ages us. Take a look at your makeup-does something need to be adjusted there (if you wear it)? what about your clothes and jewelry? Simply food for thought. :)