Article Index: Career Coach | Life at Work | WorkWise
Monday, August 23, 2010
Joyce Richman: Put size and shape aside when building positive self-image
Self-image can hinder us or move us forward.
Self-image can hinder us or move us forward. Here's an example:
"I don't want to interview. I don't feel good about how I look and I don't want to put myself through the ordeal."
What's getting in your way?
"My weight. Employers don't want to hire large sized people like me."
How do you feel about yourself?
"I'm healthy and sociable; I have wonderful friends and family, and I am fine with how I look to myself and to them. But we know each other and we don't judge each other by the pound. Applicants who are taller, slimmer and better-looking than me come in first. Those of us on the other end of the scale and the measuring stick come in last. Don't get me wrong. I realize that interviewers are supposed to evaluate. it's just that when I'm evaluated I want it to be about merit: my experience, competence, accountability and ability to work well with others. How can I get the employer to pay attention to my strengths instead of my size?"
Targeted networking is your best strategy, as it is for anyone who's looking for the right job at the right place. It works because it's built on mutual regard and personal relationships. Contact people you know and trust, and let them know the kind of work you are looking for, and the specifics of how and why you are well-suited to that work. Ask them to refer you to people they know. Because of their relationship with you, they will recommend you by describing your skills, strengths and ways you make a difference to the companies and people where you work. As a result, when you do land the interview, the employer is appropriately focused on what you can do for them.
That all works if, in addition to your merits, you come across as positive, optimistic and energetic. That you, as anyone who's in it to win it, practice healthy hygiene, from dental care to personal care; that you are well-groomed, from haircut to nail care to shined shoes; and you wear clean, pressed clothing that fits the occasion as well as it fits you.
Focus on the job, on what the business needs from you, and you're more than halfway there. The remaining climb has to do with assumptions the interviewer might have of you, based upon how you present yourself in real time. If you tire easily from minimal exertion, like walking from the reception area to the interviewer's office or around the production area, the interviewer could assume your fatigue is due to the extra weight you're carrying. If moving about the building is essential to doing your job, you can see how your apparent fatigue could create hesitation on the employer's part. Do your part, and whatever your size, do what it takes to get in good shape, physically as well as emotionally.
Then, if you have what it takes, say so: "Mr. Employer, I have the experience, drive and determination to do a great job for you. I want to work for you."
Joyce Richman is a career coach, leadership development consultant, and author of "Getting Your Kid Out of the House and Into a Job" and "Roads, Routes & Ruts: A Guidebook for Career Success". You can read her blog at www.richmanresources.com or call 3P Career at (540) 989-0046.
