Mrs. Mecomber's Scrapbook Talking technology, computers, and the Internet… for the average computer user

A new study conducted by Harris Interactive and conducted and released by Gillette says that your grooming skills are extremely important in landing a job:

In an era when unemployment rates are soaring to near-record highs, male job seekers may be more successful if they update their appearance along with their resume. Results from a recent survey of more than 500 HR professionals… indicate that 84% of HR professionals agree that well-groomed employees climb the corporate ladder faster than those who are not well-groomed. When it comes to first impressions, ninety percent of HR professionals place more importance on being well-groomed than even a firm handshake.

…Almost two-thirds of HR professionals surveyed believe that a candidate’s physical appearance is important in distinguishing them from other job candidates, and more than 90% agree that a candidate who takes the time to be well-groomed projects confidence.

Now, there’s no need to look like George Clooney to land the next career. But you don’t want to go to an interview looking and dressing like Homer Simpson, either. As a matter of fact, the study’s sponsor, Gillette, has a few online resource and reference guides with tips and advice on grooming, grooming products, articles and resources for getting hired, and other various information: there’s the Gillette Resource Center online, with a comprehensive listing of products and tutorials on how to use them, including grooming videos. And Gillette also has a very informative website called the Gillette Career Advantage, starring Mark Jeffries, a career expert who offers insight and advice, and GQ style correspondent, Brett Fahlgren. At their site, you can get expert career advice, check your own style and job-market panache with a quiz, and read articles on improving the grooming for landing that stellar job. All online, all free to peruse.

It is definitely advisable to update your appearance and manners before attempting your job interview. Gillette can help! Check out the websites for more information.