To straighten or not to straighten? That was the question I asked myself a few days before an upcoming interview. As a soon-to-be college graduate, I have been waiting for an opportunity like this, so I had to nail this interview. I had already prepared for the interview by going over questions and answers (several times) and it was time to finally get my look down pact.
I was interviewing for a marketing position for a technology and automotive company, so I knew the atmosphere would most likely be conservative. The night before the big day, I picked out the perfect outfit and shoes to match, but I still questioned what I should do with my hair.
After pacing back and forth in my apartment, I finally decided to go as I am, curls and all. If my professional experience and personality wasn’t enough for this position, then maybe it just wasn’t meant to be.
As I walked into the office the next day, I noticed the looks. Even the subtle smiles from the African Americans in the office. Before the interview began I said to myself, “Relax and just be yourself.”
The interview went really well and the anxiety I felt about my curly ‘do quickly went away. The two Caucasian males interviewing me didn’t seem to mind my hair either. Just before I was getting ready to leave, I asked one last question. “If I’m offered a position, how soon would you like me to start?” The marketing director from Germany smiled and responded, “Can you start today?” I knew I made the right decision.
