Braids in the workplace.

Hi ladies, I just wanted to start up a discussion about wearing braids/twists in the workplace. I know it used to be (somewhat) an issue like 20 yrs ago but with the constant invention of new styles and fads, how does it go now? Weaves and microbraids are pretty much classic styles, I don't think there should be any problems with those as long as they appear to be neat. At the moment, I'm just getting ready to hop back into the job market (in Oz) and I've noticed that companies tend to be very conservative. I currently have open-ended individuals installed and even though I do take care of them, it does make me a slight bit nervous going on interviews. I've pretty much decided in regards to that, the safest thing I can do is just bun it up. How about the ladies with the crochet braids, box braids, treebraids, senegalese & kinky twists? Has your hairstyle turned off any potential employers?

Well I am in the US but about ten years ago when I wore braids, I didn't get much criticism about them.  But the colors was close to my natural hair and I didn't have it flowing past my buttocks (but that is a personal matter of taste).

I'm usually conservative about the color and length.  You can't go wrong with a bun.

The job market is effed up regardless. Just be yourself. Dress neatly and maintain a neat appearance. Your hairstyle shouldn't matter at all to any decent, non-racist, non-fascist employer as long as your hair is clean and neat and, if required for safety on the job, possibly pulled away from your face or out of your eyes.

I was in management human resources for several years. It is about qualifications and how well you come across in the interview. Most people do not look at and judge how well you will perform a job based on whether you are wearing braids or not. Now keep in mind some people have their own personal prejudices and you cannot get around that. For example: Say if the person you interview with is natural, an thinks that any black who would relax their curl is a sellout. Well she might be prejudice against you, if u have a relaxer. Of course she cannot tell you that.....Wear you hair the way you like, as long as it is not purple or green, most people will not make a difference.....My doctor has locs down to his butt and he is tall. And he works in someone elses office, it is not his own practice......Build your resume and interview skills, and learn some background about the company that you are interviewing with.

Edited by Veemack - Oct 29 2011 at 10:34am