A candidate's appearance can be a significant factor in job interviews, according to research and career experts. A 2020 UK study revealed that 51% of employers admitted rejecting a candidate based on their look, with managers citing issues such as scruffy clothes or poorly dyed hair.
Min-Hsuan Tu, a professor of human resources, notes that good-looking individuals are often hired more frequently, as attractiveness is associated with positive traits like trustworthiness and intelligence. However, she clarifies that physical attractiveness extends beyond facial features or body shape to include clothing and make-up, emphasising the importance of making an effort to present well.
Career coach Caroline Hickey highlights that a professional appearance signals to interviewers that a candidate is taking the opportunity seriously. She also suggests that looking good can enhance confidence, which may lead to better performance in interviews.