Workplace Woes: Is
Your Hair Corporate-Ready?
Growing up in the 70s in Detroit, I can vividly remember watching
black women on the screen like Pam Grier. She was the epitome of what every
young black girl wanted to be - strong, sexy, sassy, and beautiful and in step
with her heritage. We all remember her classy Afro-centric looks, such as her
signature afro.
But we all can’t be Pam Grier in the workplace. How you wear
your hair at work has been the topic of heated debates, water cooler
conversations and even lawsuits for many years. So how exactly do you maintain
your employment and still dazzle with your own unique style?
Industry Acceptance
Most will say it depends on what line of work you are in.
Jobs that allow for more expression and creativity may not hold steadfast to a
workplace dress code when it comes to your hair. Teachers, social workers,
actresses and other celebrities can usually wear their hair in any and all
styles imaginable.
But what if you have dreams to become the next CEO of your company?
Is your hairstyle in line with what’s considered to be “acceptable”? What are
other black women wearing in the office?
These questions should always be taken into consideration,
but the bottom line is knowing where your own comfort level and beliefs lie.
There’s absolutely nothing wrong with sporting an afro or braids to work, as
long as it is in good taste and doesn’t overpower your overall look. You want
people to notice the whole package – personality, skill, experience and work ethic,
including your hair, and just
your hair.
I Just Gotta Be Me
Then by all means, be yourself! If you feel most comfortable
in a sew-in ponytail or some zillions – go for it. In the end, it’s really
about being comfortable in your own skin. If you are in a company that wants
more conservative looks, try a full-lace enclosure wig or pull your hair back
during the work day and let loose after you clock out.
Just like you have certain outfits that you would never wear
to work, there may certainly be certain hairstyles that can be dysfunctional in
the workplace. Making a statement about your lovely hair is one thing, but
making your hair “the” statement is another.
Weigh up your options and remember that most employers have
the final say-so when it comes to dress codes. Always read the rules about
personal grooming so that if you ever choose to go a little crazy with your
hair or go “ethnic” you don’t run the risk of fighting for your job just
because your hair is a little kinkier than others.
Ask yourself what kind of image is your company trying to
convey to their customers? Do you fit in with that image? Are you the
free-spirited woman who flaunts red and purple streaked hair or spikes to
convey your own personal sense of style? Would you wear your hair that way to
an interview?
As I part ways with you, I’d like to share some photos of some
powerful Black women who have made it high up in the ranks and how they choose
to wear their hair in the corporate workplace. From ethnic, to straightened or
permed, these women are doing their thing and still looking fabulous at the
same time!
Ursula Burns – CEO of Xerox
Ursula Burns – CEO of Xerox
Gwendolyn L. Butler - President & COO of Capri Capital Partners L.L.C.
Wise Words: I pass this on to you ladies, some advice that was once given to me:
“Dress for the job you want, not for the job you have.”
What are your thoughts? Should we be allowed to express
ourselves freely in the workplace through our hair?
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